I cannot forget my first call to meet Dylan. Dylan came to us when he was in middle school and struggling to read at a second-grade level and facing the educational disruptions common to many foster youth. With courage, he took the initiative to reach out to Learning Bridge completely independently and ask for help with reading. With the dedication of his tutors, Dylan not only improved his reading by a full grade level, but he also gained confidence and a more positive outlook on his education.
Dylan’s journey didn’t stop there. Inspired by his progress, he applied on his own again requesting help with math as well. His Learning Bridge tutors became more than just educators; they became his cheerleaders, celebrating every small victory along the way, including his basketball games. They cheered him on not just in academics but in life, showing him that every achievement, no matter how small, was a testament to his strength and resilience. Then came a curveball. Dylan was placed with a new foster family, losing touch with his tutors and the stability he had grown to rely on. His progress had come to a halt, and it seemed like the rug had been pulled from under him once again. As Program Manager, I couldn’t bear to see his flame of hope and progress diminished. I knew that Dylan deserved better, so I took it upon myself to track him down. The moment I found him, I was overjoyed to reconnect him with the support system he needed—his original tutors. This reunion brought a sense of normalcy back into his unpredictable life, allowing him to continue building on his progress and reminding him that he was not alone.
Today, Dylan approaches his education with a newfound confidence and hope—not just because his academic skills have improved, but because he has experienced something that many foster youth lack: adults who refused to give up on him. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we choose to see the potential in every child, no matter their background or challenges. I love recounting Dylan’s story because it showcases not just our dedication and the immense care of our volunteer tutors, but also the transformative power of unwavering support and belief in a young life. It reminds us that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and believed in, and that with the right support, they can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. Dylan’s journey is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and growth, and it inspires us to continue creating pathways to success for all the young lives we touch.
– Monica, Program Manager
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