Leveling Up to a New Stage of Growth

For youth in the foster care system, overcoming educational challenges can feel out of reach. In New York City, the disparities in educational outcomes for youth in foster care are staggering. While 77% of NYC youth not in foster care graduate from high school, less than 25% of foster care youth achieve the same milestone*. And when a youth in care does find success, barriers to internships and employment pop up.

Heartshare St. Vincent's Family Services employs a research-based approach to improving outcomes for youth in care. We support middle and early high school students by providing mentorship, connecting them with caring adults, advocating for their needs, and offering trauma-informed educational support. For older youth and young adults, we focus on helping them complete high school, access college, and build the skills needed for employment readiness.

The positive impact of this model is clear in the strong graduation and college enrollment rates of our St. Vincent’s Youth.

In 2025:

90% of the 5th-grade youth coached in our Pathways to College Program graduated from elementary school.

Similarly, 90% of the 8th-grade youth in our Pathways to College Program graduated from middle school, reflecting strong support for students transitioning to high school.

100% of the youth engaged in our American Dream Program HS and American Dream Success Program either graduated from high school or obtained their HSE/GED, demonstrating our program's impact on older students preparing for post-secondary steps.

All youth coached through our American Dream Program successfully graduated with college degrees, highlighting the comprehensive academic and career preparation for young adults.

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Beyond the numbers, the impact of our education and employment support is evident firsthand our favorite events of the year: the Heartshare St. Vincent’s Family Services Level Up Ceremonies.

At Heartshare, the words “Level Up” represent much more than graduating. They represent a transformation of each of the youth in our care, having been coached by someone dedicated not only to their educational achievements but also to their mental and physical well-being.

At the end of each school year, Heartshare holds ceremonies to celebrate participants transitioning from 5th to 6th grade and 8th to 9th grade, as well as participants graduating from high school or college. Each ceremony honors achievements specific to the stage and focus of each program.

Seeing youth hold their heads a little higher, smile a little brighter, and use their voice a little louder is what Heartshare is all about. It’s giving youth the opportunities and tools to take up space and realize that no dream is too big. And once they are able to see for themselves the potential they have unlocked, the sky is the limit.

Join us in congratulating the Heartshare St. Vincent’s Family Services Classes of 2025 and enjoy some of the highlights from this year's ceremonies!