RaShaan’s Story

RaShaan was a resilient young adult when he came into SCO’s Foster Care program over a year ago, unsure of the future and longing for stability. Though he initially stepped into our residential group home with apprehension, it soon became a haven where he formed bonds and found constant support. RaShaan was relieved he finally had a place to call home.

Rashaan was assigned a Forward Journey coach, Arzu, who works with him on his education, career, and life skill goals. As Rashaan puts it, “She’s the person I call for anything and everything.”

When he first came into care, he wasn’t enrolled in school, didn’t have a job, and was unsure of the paths he wanted to follow. Arzu encouraged him to go back to get his GED and connected him to SCO’s Mentored Internship Program (MIP).

In MIP, Rashaan was able to work on his resume, cover letter, interview skills, and network. After completing MIP, he continues to receive support through SCO’s Passages to Adulthood program, where he learns independent living skills and interns – gaining real world job experience.

Under a steadfast mentorship, RaShaan reignited his educational drive, pursuing his GED with an aspiration to excel in the performing arts. With skills sharpened through SCO’s programs to support youth in care, he stands at the threshold of a bright future, enriched by invaluable experiences and friendships.

Alayah’s Story

Alayah was always curious. When she saw something, she wouldn’t just take it at face value. She wanted to learn more. “How does that work?” “Why did that happen?” “What makes it do that?”

Her inquisitive nature was one of the traits that made her such a good student. She loves to learn and always has.

Growing up in Philadelphia, Alayah was at the top of her class. When she moved to New York, however, she risked having to repeat her junior year because some of her credits did not transfer.

Determined to graduate on time with her class, Alayah transferred to SCO’s East Brooklyn Community High School (EBCHS.) East Brooklyn is a transfer high school in partnership with SCO Family of Services and the New York City Department of Education. Students there can earn credits at an accelerated rate, so Alayah was able to earn her remaining junior credits and all of her senior credits in the same academic year.

Upon her arrival at EBCHS, Alayah had one goal: Go to college. She wanted to be the first in her family to go to college and she was determined to make it happen.

In the Spring of her senior year, Alayah’s EBCHS Advocate Counselor told her about a college scholarship available through Garden of Dreams, the Inspire Scholarship, and it’s substantial – $40,000 ($10,000 per year for four years) and a brand-new MacBook.

The Garden of Dreams Foundation is a non-profit organization that works with MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports to bring life-changing opportunities to young people in need. SCO Family of Services is one of their partner organizations.

When Alayah learned about the Garden of Dreams Inspire Scholarship, she jumped at the opportunity to apply. With a little help from her English teacher and a letter of recommendation from the EBCHS School Director, Alayah submitted her application.

Immersed in finishing out her senior year and applying to a myriad of colleges, Alayah received an email that she received a Garden of Dreams Inspire Scholarship! It was, in her words, an “Oh, my God! What a relief!” moment.

It really should come as no surprise. Her insatiable desire for knowledge made her the perfect candidate.

Alayah’s drive to go to college paid off. She was accepted into 16 colleges. Sixteen! In the end, Alayah chose North Carolina A&T University. It’s an excellent school and the people she talked to had great things to say about it.

Alayah plans to Major in Biology on the Pre-Med track, with a Minor in Psychology. She’d love to get into a top medical school and become a surgeon one day. She grew up helping to take care of people. It’s in her blood.

Alayah has set her goals high, but with her talent, drive and determination, she’s destined to achieve them all.

Congratulations, Alayah!

Virtual After School Programs: Brooklyn – Register Today!

During the pandemic, SCO offers Virtual After School programming for students in grades K-8 living in Brooklyn. SCO’s Virtual After School Programs offer online homework assistance and a variety of activities that enrich students’ education, fosters their academic achievement, and prepares them for future success. Our online programs feature live and recorded activities that allow students to participate at their convenience. The Virtual After School Programs are an essential resource for working families, providing a safe and enriching environment during out-of-school hours. Students living anywhere in Brooklyn can participate in SCO’s Virtual After School Programs.

Program Activities

  • Visual Arts
  • Virtual Gaming
  • Dance & Fitness
  • STEM
  • Homework Assistance
  • Theater & Storytelling
  • Restorative Circles
  • Youth Leadership

Want to learn more? Complete the form below

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Virtual After School Programs in Brooklyn 

SCO at PS 5: 820 Hancock St., Brooklyn, NY 11221
Grades K-5

SCO at PS 81: 990 DeKalb Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11221
Grades K-5

SCO at East New York Middle School of Excellence: 605 Shephard Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11208
Grades 6-8

SCO at PS/IS 41: 411 Thatford Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11212
Grades 6-8

SCO at Beacon at MS 35: 272 MacDonough St., Brooklyn, NY 11233
Grades K-8

 

 

RaShaan’s Story

Reigniting educational drive through mentorship opportunities

Read RaShaan’s Story

Alayah’s Story

Next Stop, College! Alayah O’Sullivan - East Brooklyn Community High School Class of 2022

Read Alayah’s Story

88%

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

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