Jasmine’s Story

I entered foster care at 16 years old and was placed in the home of “Aunt” Nessa, as I liked to call her. Few people knew of my situation; it was our little secret. I was embarrassed by the family dysfunction that led me to this strange place in my life, and with the support of my SCO caseworkers, I realized that education was my way out.

My goal was to attend Spelman College. I faced some naysayers; guidance counselors who said it was too expensive, others who felt I would never get in. But my SCO caseworkers and staff supported my decision. They stayed on top of me, making sure I filled out every document and scholarship. It was the staff’s unwavering support and positive reinforcement that sustained me.

I was accepted to Spelman with scholarships from several organizations as well as financial support from SCO’s education and permanency program, which helped me afford my housing.

But that was just the start of my journey. During summer break, I earned an internship volunteering with foster youth and their families through AmeriCorps that changed my life. I didn’t want any special treatment, so no one at my job was aware of my status as a foster youth. But as I worked in the family visiting room, much like a fly on the wall, I watched young people about my age visiting with the children they had lost custody of, some pregnant again. I saw a vicious cycle happening before my eyes.

It was that summer I realized that as a woman of color, as a foster youth, and as a human being who just cares, it would be a disservice if I didn’t take advantage of my unique pairing of lived experiences and desire to affect change.

Today, I am at Teachers College Columbia University earning my Masters in Clinical Psychology on a full scholarship, so that I, too, can be a source of support for youth in need.

Mission

Mother and Daughter

SCO Family of Services delivers vital human services to children, families, adults, and the community to provide them with the necessary tools to achieve success.

Vision

We are the leading human services agency, providing the highest standard of care, both in our region and in the nation. We innovate community-based practices and set evidence-based standards that shape the policy and direction of human services and interrupt the cycles that prevent every child, individual and family from having what they need to survive and thrive.

Values

  • Compassion: We provide deep empathy and a safe, caring environment that enriches and supports each life we touch.
  • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging: We are a diverse workplace that is intentional about advancing equitable and inclusive practices that foster a feeling of belonging among our clients and staff. See our video
  • Empowerment: We enhance the strengths of individuals, families, communities, and staff, providing opportunities to succeed.
  • Excellence: We provide the highest level of care to those we serve.  We do this in a culture that elevates learning and appreciates our dedicated, hardworking staff.
  • Integrity: We pride ourselves on honesty, commitment, and accountability.

Carlos’ Story

A world of opportunity through resilience, focus, and assistance from SCO College Specialists

Read Carlos’ Story

Jasmine’s Story

Foster Care staff helps Jasmine turn lived experience to advocacy for others

Read Jasmine’s Story

88%

of young adults in foster care (18+) are enrolled in school or working

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