Transforming Lives Through Meaningful Connections: The Found Village Approach to Empowering Foster Youth

In the heart of Cincinnati, a remarkable organization is redefining the way we support young people in the foster care system. Found Village, co-founded by Katie Nzekwu, is on a mission to break the cycle of dependency and foster true transformation through the power of relationships. By listening to the needs of the youth they serve and partnering with them to create meaningful change, Found Village is achieving remarkable results, setting a new standard for how we can positively impact the lives of those facing the challenges of the foster care system.

Empowering Youth to Break the Cycle of Dependency

Relationship-Driven Approach

The key to Found Village's success lies in their belief that "resources without a relationship creates dependency, but resources through a relationship creates transformation." By prioritizing the building of trust and understanding with the youth they serve, the organization is able to tailor its support to the unique needs of each individual. Instead of simply providing resources, Found Village's team works alongside the young people, guiding them, building their confidence, and equipping them with the tools they need to navigate life on their own.

Listening to the Voices of Youth

At the heart of Found Village's approach is the belief that "young people know what they need." By actively listening to the youth in their program, the organization is able to identify the specific challenges they face and develop tailored solutions. This collaborative approach empowers the young people to be active participants in their own transformation, fostering a sense of ownership and investment in their future.

Holistic Support

Found Village's comprehensive approach to supporting foster youth extends beyond just meeting their basic needs. The organization recognizes that true transformation requires addressing the multifaceted challenges these young people face, from emotional and mental health support to practical life skills and career development. By taking a holistic view, Found Village is able to provide a robust network of resources and guidance, ensuring that the youth in their care have the tools they need to thrive.

Measuring Success Through Tangible Outcomes

The impact of Found Village's work is undeniable. The organization has reported a 50% drop in hospitalizations, suspensions, or incarcerations among the youth in their program after the first year. Furthermore, they have achieved a remarkable 100% high school graduation rate, far exceeding the national average of 72% for foster care youth. These tangible outcomes are a testament to the power of the organization's relationship-driven approach and its ability to empower young people to break free from the cycle of dependency.

Inspiring a Shift in Mindset

Found Village's model is not only transforming the lives of the youth they serve but also inspiring a shift in the broader approach to supporting foster care youth. As one of the organization's coaches, Allen Givens, observed, "What we do can help on an individual basis, but that's contingent upon who is in our program. If there's a fundamental change in philosophy throughout the agencies in the city... that's a macro level change, and that's that would be probably the greatest thing I think can happen."By advocating for a change in perspective and a deeper commitment to building meaningful relationships with foster youth, Found Village is paving the way for a more holistic and impactful system of support. Their work serves as a shining example of how a focus on empowerment, trust, and collaboration can truly transform the lives of some of our most vulnerable young people.