The California State University (CSU), Stanislaus Promise Scholars, and some of the special people who care most about them, are preparing to slice, dice, cook and serve brunch to the community on Sunday, Sept. 9. They will compete with four other local charities to raise money for the Promise Scholars program, which benefits former foster youth attending CSU Stanislaus. The event is the first-ever Community Brunch Serving YOUth, taking place at John Thurman Field in Modesto.
Senior Terrence Ellis recalls the challenges he faced growing up without parents. “I wasn’t even close to thinking about college or getting an education,” he said. “I was just doing what I could to survive.” More than 80,000 infants, children and teenagers are currently enrolled in California’s foster care system. Less than half of the nation’s foster children make it through high school; less than 5 percent attend college.
Through the CSU Stanislaus Promise Scholars program, Ellis and others like him receive financial assistance, instruction and support for developing life skills such as money management, and well as help in finding jobs that won’t interfere with their school work. As Promise Scholars director Wanda Bonnell states, “We can’t change their past, but we can make their futures better.”
The winning Community Brunch Serving YOUth team will receive a cash award based on ticket sales. The individual teams will also earn money through silent auction sales and sponsorships. The proceeds will be used for scholarships, tuition, books and housing for Promise Scholars, college students who have “graduated” from the foster care system.
The Promise Scholars team is asking for support from the campus community. Tickets are $35 each and may be purchased by calling (209) 667-3311. People can also help by liking the Promise Scholars page on Facebook.
Senior Terrence Ellis recalls the challenges he faced growing up without parents. “I wasn’t even close to thinking about college or getting an education,” he said. “I was just doing what I could to survive.” More than 80,000 infants, children and teenagers are currently enrolled in California’s foster care system. Less than half of the nation’s foster children make it through high school; less than 5 percent attend college.
Through the CSU Stanislaus Promise Scholars program, Ellis and others like him receive financial assistance, instruction and support for developing life skills such as money management, and well as help in finding jobs that won’t interfere with their school work. As Promise Scholars director Wanda Bonnell states, “We can’t change their past, but we can make their futures better.”
The winning Community Brunch Serving YOUth team will receive a cash award based on ticket sales. The individual teams will also earn money through silent auction sales and sponsorships. The proceeds will be used for scholarships, tuition, books and housing for Promise Scholars, college students who have “graduated” from the foster care system.
The Promise Scholars team is asking for support from the campus community. Tickets are $35 each and may be purchased by calling (209) 667-3311. People can also help by liking the Promise Scholars page on Facebook.