When Stephanie aged out of foster care at 18, she faced a difficult choice: return to her family of origin or take the next step through DePaul Community Resources’ Independent Living program.
“That was the hardest decision,” said Stephanie. “But I didn’t know what I was going to go back home to. I knew the program would help me reach my goals.”
With the organization’s support, she chose independence.
Today, Stephanie works part-time at Advance Auto Parts, studies mechanics at community college and is building a future on her own terms. She has earned her driver's license, is saving for a vehicle and continues developing the skills needed to live independently.
“Stories like Stephanie’s show what's possible when young people have the support they need to succeed,” says Renee Brown, CEO of DePaul Community Resources.
Many of us remember the excitement of getting a driver's license, landing a first job or moving into our own place. Those milestones mark important steps toward independence—but they often come with support from family, mentors and a community cheering us on.
For young adults aging out of foster care, the road to independence can be much more uncertain.
That's why organizations like DePaul Community Resources are so important. Based in Roanoke, Virginia, DePaul supports children, youth and families through foster care, adoption, kinship care, counseling and independent living programs that help people build brighter futures.
Beyond helping young adults transition into adulthood, DePaul works to strengthen families and provide support before challenges become crises. Whether helping relatives who unexpectedly become caregivers or connecting families with essential resources, the organization focuses on keeping children connected to supportive relationships and stable environments whenever possible.
“Anytime we can keep families together and kids attached to their culture, outcomes are always better,” Brown says.
The organization's impact extends across every stage of care. Through life-skills training, mentorship, housing assistance and financial literacy programs, DePaul helps young people gain the confidence and practical skills needed for long-term success.
