Jacob’s Story of Redemption

Jacob’s story begins like that of many foster care children: with a confusing and traumatizing series of events. He entered foster care at seven years old and stayed in care until he aged out. At age 16, he began bracing himself for the aging-out process, which is complex and difficult for foster care youth.

Over 20,000 foster care students age out each year. And because aged out foster care youth are often less prepared to earn their college degree due to a lack of a support system, 97% will slip through the cracks.

But Jacob’s story is one of redemption! He expresses gratitude for receiving an education, good health, and safety in foster care. And his scholarship with ISF enables him to attend college, earning a Media Arts degree.

“My inner voice keeps criticizing me when I want to push myself to try new things–but I’m learning how to cope with that. When I first arrived at my foster home, I didn’t know what was going on and did not know anyone. Over time, I became smarter and more creative. I’ve learned how to cope with my emotions and how to live minimally. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to take care of myself.”

Jacob envisions building more self-confidence, pushing himself to new limits, and graduating with a job lined up in the film industry.