Stepping Onto New Ground!

On average, 200 children age out of foster care in Colorado every year. In 2026, 200 young people will turn age 18 in foster care and find themselves on their own with limited support. Many will exit care without a safe place to land and a plan for their future. The statistics are not in their favor as they navigate adulthood on their own. They are at an increased risk of unplanned pregnancy, incarceration, and homelessness. The good news is, they don’t have to face their future milestones on their own. We are creating a way to introduce young adults, ages 18-24, to a caring adult committed to their well-being. We are calling it New Ground because both Mentors and young adults will be stepping onto new ground, facing new challenges, learning new things, and most importantly, doing it together.

At Project 1.27, our vision is “every child in a nurturing, well-supported family”. This is true for every child in foster care and every 18-year-old aging out of the system. That is why we are launching New Ground, a mentoring program for young adults transitioning out of foster care. These young adults also need the family-like support a Mentor can provide. Mentors offer guidance, share life experiences, and provide encouragement. Most importantly, they build genuine friendships and help young adults feel connected to their communities. Mentors will be available to guide young people in big life decisions, but more importantly, will offer a consistent, loving presence to a young person who has experienced significant trauma and broken relationships. 

Advent is the season when the Church remembers that God came near as a baby. We remember his first coming and anticipate his return. It is the season when we hold tight to the truth that proximity matters. It helps us feel less alone - knowing we are not doing life alone. It seems fitting that this time of year is when we are launching New Ground, as we are introducing people to each other so we can all be less alone. For connections to happen, we need Mentors who will give their time, attention, and care to be with a young person. If you are interested in learning more about what is involved in being a Mentor, visit our website or contact Alysa Dudrey at [email protected]. 

“‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
    and they shall call his name ‘Immanuel’
(which means, God with us).” 
-Matthew 1:23

By Alex Kuykendall, Director of Community Engagement
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