Meet Them where they are
Incentives with Impact: How Our Fostering Success Program Transforms Classrooms & Lives
Meeting Kids Where They Are
Every child brings their own story into the classroom, and for those navigating the foster care system, the journey can be especially complicated. At Homes for children corporation, we believe all children deserve not just a roof over their heads, but genuine opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. That’s why our Fostering Success program goes beyond the basics—using strategic incentives that foster hope, confidence, and achievement.
The Power of Incentives: Why They Matter
For many of the youth we serve, traditional educational supports often aren’t enough. Incentives—when done right—can be transformative. They offer kids tangible reasons to persevere, participate, and thrive, turning what sometimes feels like an uphill battle into milestones worth celebrating.
Financial Incentives: Removing Barriers
One of the first hurdles for youth from foster backgrounds is often the lack of basic supplies and resources. The Fostering Success program provides:
Back-to-school supply kits so kids start the year equipped and excited
Emergency grants for urgent needs, keeping students enrolled during tough times
Scholarships and tuition assistance for high school graduates going on to college or vocational training
By promising help when times get tough, we transform “maybe” into “I can.” Financial support isn’t just about covering costs—it's about opening doors.
Mentorship: Relationships that Make a Difference
Money matters, but so do people. We pair students with committed mentors—adults they can trust and look up to. These connections are life-changing:
Mentors offer consistent encouragement and help set realistic but ambitious goals
Our academic advocates sit with students after class, helping with everything from algebra homework to essay writing
Kids get a cheerleader in their corner—sometimes for the first time
It’s not just the kids who benefit; teachers and school staff notice the changes too. Classrooms become more engaged, students more eager to participate, and everyone feels a little more hopeful.
Real-World Skills for Lifelong Success
Kids need more than grades to build a good life. Our program incentivizes practical skills that set students up for independence. Workshops and clubs cover:
Healthy cooking and nutrition for teens aging out of foster care
Budgeting and money management, from opening a bank account to building a savings plan
Job readiness, including resume writing, mock interviews, and even a professional “Career Closet” for interview attire
Success isn’t a single moment—it’s a path, and we walk it with them every step of the way.
Creating a Community of Support
We believe lasting change comes through community. Our Fostering Success program links students, teachers, advocates, and local partners together so no one feels alone:
Classroom incentive systems promote positive behavior and academic improvement, like point systems for attendance, effort, and progress. Rewards might be anything from movie nights to leadership roles.
Staff and mentors receive professional development, ensuring everyone knows what kids in foster care really need.
Kids connect with peers who understand their unique challenges, forming a network of support and encouragement.
These layers of support don’t just change individual outcomes—they make our schools stronger for everyone.
Stories of Transformation
Here’s what impact looks like in real time:
“My mentor taught me how to break big problems into small steps. Last semester, I got my first A ever!” – Marcus, Fostering Success student
“Thanks to the emergency grant, I could pay for my textbooks and didn’t have to drop a class.” – Taylor, former foster youth and current college freshman
“Our classroom feels different now. The students are more motivated, and I feel like I have real partners in their success.” – Ms. Rodriguez, High School Teacher
Building for the Future
The ripple effects are real. Students who’ve received support often return to the program as volunteers and mentors themselves. Whole families are strengthened when one young person finds direction and purpose. And our partner schools see lower dropout rates, improved morale, and a more positive atmosphere overall.
Want to Get Involved?
The work is big—but so is our vision. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, providing mentorship, donating, or becoming a partner organization, there’s a place for you. Together, we can keep building incentives that change lives—not just for today, but for generations to come.
Fostering Success isn’t just a program; it’s a promise. When we invest in the potential of every child, we transform classrooms, schools, and entire communities. And the best part? We’re just getting started.