STRIVE

Support for today. A plan for what’s next.

What Is STRIVE?

STRIVE (Strategies to Rejuvenate Interest and Value in Education) supports young people in foster care as they navigate school, relationships and the transition to adulthood.

Through consistent relationships with Youth Guidance counselors, young people receive personalized counseling, academic support, advocacy and guidance as they build on their strengths, pursue their goals and prepare for what comes next.

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A Consistent Adult in Their Corner

Relationships that help young people move forward.

STRIVE counselors build long-term, supportive relationships with young people and work alongside caregivers, schools and other partners to create a strong network of support.

Based on each young person’s needs and goals, STRIVE provides:

Counseling & Well-Being

Individualized counseling and support to help young people navigate challenges, relationships and life transitions.

Education & Advocacy

Academic support and collaboration with schools and caregivers to help students stay engaged and make progress toward graduation.

College, Career & Life Planning

Guidance, experiences and resources that help young people explore postsecondary education, careers and their goals for adulthood.

Connections & Resources

Referrals, crisis support and connections to services and resources for young people and their families.

Preparing for What Comes Next

Building confidence, independence and possibility.

The transition to adulthood brings important decisions about education, work, relationships and independence. STRIVE gives young people opportunities to explore those possibilities with a trusted adult alongside them.

Through one-on-one counseling, college visits, educational and enrichment experiences, family engagement and postsecondary planning, young people can build skills, expand their options and take meaningful steps toward the future they envision.

Working Together

A network of support around each young person.

STRIVE is a partnership between Youth Guidance, schools and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). By connecting the adults and systems in a young person’s life, STRIVE helps create more coordinated, consistent support at school, at home and in the community.

Connect With STRIVE

STRIVE serves young people in foster care attending schools in the Chicago area.

Interested in learning more about STRIVE?

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Find STRIVE Near You

STRIVE is currently offered in the Chicago area.