Roberto’s Story
Chasing his dreams
Read Roberto’s Story
Roberto has been a resident of one of SCO’s Independence Inns for the past two years. Located in Brooklyn and Queens, Independence Inns provide shelter and support for young people who are experiencing homelessness or have run away. SCO staff helps residents finish school and acquire skills that will prepare them to be self-sufficient.
Since coming to the Inn, Roberto has used his time to focus on his education and passion for baseball. In January 2024, Roberto graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School and began his pursuit of a college education. During this time, Roberto also obtained his Home Health Aide Certificate and became employed as a salesperson at Portobella Suits in Brooklyn.
With support and guidance from the Inn staff, Roberto researched colleges, taking his time to determine the right choice for him. Roberto ultimately decided to accept admission to Tompkins Courtland Community College where he plans to study Finance and play baseball.
Roberto is scheduled to transition from Inn I to college in late August 2024. Roberto can pursue his dreams of becoming a Major League Baseball player and getting a good education.
Roberto is extremely excited for the next chapter in his life. He has expressed gratitude and is thankful for all the support he has received from SCO Family of Services and the staff at the Inn as he strives toward a brighter future.
SCO Family of Services is deeply honored to shine a spotlight on the Marilyn Lichtman Foundation for their extraordinary generosity and support of our Robert J. McMahon Children’s Center (RJMCC) Capital Campaign.
Thanks to their recent gift, we are taking transformative steps to reimagine the Tyree Vocational Classroom/Life Skills space inside the Tyree Learning Center: a New York State-certified special education school dedicated to children with developmental and behavioral challenges. Their support is making critical renovations possible, including modernizing the classroom, adding adaptive equipment and new appliances, and creating a nurturing, therapeutic learning space designed to meet the unique needs of every student.
The Marilyn Lichtman Foundation’s belief in the potential of every child and their dedication to education, healing, and hope is helping us create an environment where young people can truly thrive. Their compassion is not only improving lives today, but also opening doors to brighter tomorrows.
From all of us at SCO, thank you to the Marilyn Lichtman Foundation for being a beacon of hope and a true partner in building a more inclusive, empowered future for the children and families we serve.

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