Shifting Gears: Building Independence for Youth Aging Out of Foster Care

Welcome to another deep dive into critical community issues! In this post, we're expanding on our recent conversation with Diana Liberto Grove, the inspiring founder of Shifting Gears, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth aged 16-25 as they transition out of the foster care system. Diana's work is nothing short of transformative, offering these young adults a lifeline as they navigate the often-turbulent waters of independence. We'll explore the programs Shifting Gears offers, from life skills training and educational support to housing assistance and the grand vision Diana has for the organization's future. This blog post aims to give you a more in-depth look at the work Diana is doing, the challenges these youth face, and how you can contribute to making a real difference. We highly recommend listening to the related podcast episode for the full conversation with Diana.

The Urgent Need for Supporting Youth Aging Out of Foster Care

The foster care system is designed to provide temporary homes for children and teenagers who cannot live with their biological families. However, what happens when these youth reach the age of majority, typically 18 or 21, depending on the state? They "age out" of the system, often without a stable support network or the necessary life skills to thrive independently. This transition can be incredibly challenging, leaving them vulnerable to homelessness, unemployment, substance abuse, and involvement in the criminal justice system. Statistics paint a sobering picture. Young adults who age out of foster care are more likely to experience these negative outcomes compared to their peers who grew up in stable homes. They often lack access to essential resources such as affordable housing, job training, and mental health services. The lack of a consistent support system can lead to feelings of isolation and hopelessness, making it difficult for them to build a successful future. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that provides these young adults with the tools and resources they need to achieve self-sufficiency and lead fulfilling lives. This is where organizations like Shifting Gears play a pivotal role.

Meet Diana Liberto Grove: A Champion for Foster Youth

Diana Liberto Grove is not just a nonprofit founder; she's a passionate advocate for foster youth and a dedicated member of her community. A high school teacher in Harford County, Maryland, Diana's journey into fostering began with a deep understanding of the needs of teenagers in the system. She and her husband opened their home to teens, providing them with a safe and supportive environment. This firsthand experience ignited a fire in Diana to do more. She recognized the gaps in services available to youth aging out of foster care and felt compelled to create a solution. Her background as an educator, combined with her personal experience as a foster and adoptive mom, gave her a unique perspective on the challenges these young adults face. Diana's commitment to these youth extends beyond just providing basic needs; she strives to build meaningful relationships with them, offering guidance, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Her dedication is evident in every aspect of Shifting Gears, from the design of the programs to the way she interacts with the youth she serves. Her unwavering belief in their potential is what drives her work and inspires others to get involved.

The Genesis of Shifting Gears: Filling a Critical Gap

Shifting Gears was born out of Diana's direct experiences with the foster care system and the realization that there was a significant gap in services for youth transitioning to adulthood. While many organizations focus on younger children in foster care, Diana recognized that teenagers and young adults have unique needs that are often overlooked. She envisioned a nonprofit that would provide comprehensive support to these young adults, equipping them with the skills and resources they need to navigate the challenges of independence. The organization was founded on the principles of empowerment, community, and individualized support. Diana wanted to create a safe space where these youth could feel valued, respected, and supported. The name "Shifting Gears" reflects the idea of transitioning from one stage of life to another, providing the necessary tools and guidance to navigate these changes successfully. From its humble beginnings, Shifting Gears has grown into a vital resource for foster youth in the Harford County area, offering a range of programs and services that address their unique needs. Diana's vision has transformed into a tangible reality, making a positive impact on the lives of countless young adults.

Shifting Gears' Key Programs and Initiatives

Shifting Gears offers a diverse range of programs and initiatives designed to address the specific needs of youth aging out of foster care. These programs are structured to provide holistic support, focusing on life skills, education, and housing assistance. Here's a closer look at some of the key initiatives:

Life Skills Training

One of the most critical components of Shifting Gears' programs is life skills training. These young adults often lack the basic skills that many of us take for granted, such as budgeting, cooking, cleaning, and maintaining a household. Shifting Gears provides practical workshops and one-on-one coaching to help them develop these essential skills. The training covers a wide range of topics, including financial literacy, time management, healthy relationships, and conflict resolution. Participants learn how to create a budget, manage their finances, prepare nutritious meals, and maintain a clean and organized living space. They also receive guidance on how to navigate the complexities of adulthood, such as applying for jobs, managing their health, and accessing community resources. The goal is to empower these young adults with the skills they need to live independently and successfully.

Education Support

Education is a key factor in achieving long-term success, but many youth aging out of foster care face significant barriers to completing their education. Shifting Gears provides comprehensive education support to help them overcome these challenges. This includes tutoring, mentoring, and assistance with college applications and financial aid. The organization also partners with local schools and colleges to provide scholarships and other resources. Diana and her team work closely with each young adult to assess their educational goals and develop a personalized plan to help them achieve those goals. They provide support with everything from homework and test preparation to college visits and financial aid applications. The goal is to ensure that these young adults have the opportunity to pursue their educational dreams and build a brighter future.

Housing Assistance

Finding safe and affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges for youth aging out of foster care. Shifting Gears provides housing assistance to help them secure stable housing. This includes helping them find apartments, apply for housing assistance programs, and learn about their rights as tenants. The organization also provides temporary housing for those who are at immediate risk of homelessness. Diana recognizes that having a safe and stable place to live is essential for these young adults to focus on their education, employment, and personal development. Shifting Gears works tirelessly to connect them with housing resources and provide ongoing support to help them maintain their housing. This includes providing furniture, household supplies, and assistance with paying rent and utilities.

The Big Vision: Future Plans for Shifting Gears

Diana's vision for Shifting Gears extends far beyond the current programs and initiatives. She has ambitious plans to expand the organization's reach and impact, creating even more opportunities for foster youth to thrive. These plans include:

Tiny-Home Community

One of Diana's most innovative ideas is to create a tiny-home community specifically designed for youth aging out of foster care. This community would provide affordable, sustainable housing in a supportive environment. The tiny homes would be designed to be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, providing a comfortable and safe living space for residents. The community would also include shared amenities such as a community center, garden, and recreational areas. This would foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities for residents to connect with one another. The tiny-home community would not only address the critical need for affordable housing but also provide a supportive environment where these young adults can build relationships, develop life skills, and achieve their full potential.

Adult "Boys & Girls Club" Space

Diana envisions creating a dedicated space where young adults can come together to socialize, learn new skills, and access resources. This "adult Boys & Girls Club" would provide a safe and welcoming environment where they can feel supported and connected. The space would offer a variety of programs and activities, including workshops on life skills, career development, and personal wellness. It would also provide access to computers, internet, and other resources that they may not have at home. The goal is to create a community hub where these young adults can build relationships, develop their skills, and access the support they need to succeed.

Emergency Shelter

Recognizing the urgent need for emergency housing, Diana plans to establish an emergency shelter for youth aging out of foster care. This shelter would provide temporary housing and support services for those who are experiencing homelessness or are at immediate risk of becoming homeless. The shelter would offer a safe and supportive environment where they can receive meals, clothing, and other basic necessities. It would also provide access to case management services, helping them to find stable housing, employment, and other resources. The emergency shelter would serve as a lifeline for these young adults, providing them with a safe place to stay and the support they need to get back on their feet.

How You Can Get Involved with Shifting Gears

Shifting Gears relies on the support of the community to achieve its mission. There are many ways you can get involved and make a difference in the lives of youth aging out of foster care:

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteers are essential to the success of Shifting Gears. There are many opportunities to volunteer your time and skills, from tutoring and mentoring to assisting with fundraising events and administrative tasks. You can volunteer to help with life skills workshops, provide transportation for youth to appointments, or assist with organizing and maintaining the organization's care closet. Shifting Gears also welcomes volunteers with specific skills, such as accounting, marketing, or event planning. Your time and talents can make a significant impact on the lives of these young adults.

Donations and Support

Financial donations are critical to supporting Shifting Gears' programs and initiatives. Your donations can help provide housing assistance, education support, life skills training, and other essential services. You can make a one-time donation or set up a recurring donation to provide ongoing support. Shifting Gears also accepts in-kind donations, such as furniture, household supplies, and clothing. Your generosity can help ensure that these young adults have the resources they need to thrive.

The Hard Realities and the Power of Community

The realities faced by youth aging out of foster care can be incredibly challenging. Many struggle with mental health issues, lack of stable housing, and difficulty finding employment. They are also at a higher risk of becoming involved in the criminal justice system or experiencing homelessness. However, with the support of a strong community, these young adults can overcome these challenges and build a brighter future. Shifting Gears provides a sense of belonging and a network of support that can make all the difference. Diana and her team work tirelessly to create a safe and welcoming environment where these young adults can feel valued, respected, and empowered. By providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed, Shifting Gears is helping to change the narrative and create positive outcomes for these youth.

Conclusion: Turning Compassion into Infrastructure with Shifting Gears

Diana Liberto Grove's work with Shifting Gears is a testament to the power of compassion and community. She has transformed her personal experience and dedication into a vital infrastructure that supports youth aging out of foster care. By providing comprehensive programs and initiatives, Shifting Gears is helping these young adults navigate the challenges of independence and build successful futures. As we learned in our recent episode, the impact of Shifting Gears is far-reaching, creating positive change in the lives of countless young adults. But, as Diana made clear, there's still so much more work to be done, and every single person can play a role. Whether you volunteer your time, donate to the cause, or simply spread awareness about the issue, your contribution can make a significant difference. Let's all commit to turning compassion into infrastructure and supporting organizations like Shifting Gears that are working to create a brighter future for youth aging out of foster care.

Resources and Contact Information

If you're interested in learning more about Shifting Gears or getting involved, here are some helpful resources:

• Website: shiftinggearsmd.org
• Email: shiftinggearsmd@gmail.com
• Social Media:
  • Facebook: "Shifting Gears, Inc"
  • Instagram: "shifting_gears_md"