Adult Foster Youth

A profile of four young adults coming out of the foster youth system and building their own lives around the state. JBAY improves the quality of life for youth in California who have been in foster care by advocating for better laws, training communities to strengthen local practices and conducting research to inform policy solutions.

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– Shot on commission for John Burton Advocates for Youth –

Joel Swazo

Age 22

Hollywood, California

“Having your own space? It’ll set your mind free. I wish I could tell my younger self that couch surfing and living in motels was not forever. Now I’m 22, living with a roommate, and paying my own rent every month. I have my own business selling sneakers online and I’m proud of how I’ve been able to keep a clear head.”

Jenny Bulanadi

Age 20

Concord, California

“When I was 17, I’d been sleeping at a park for several months. My social worker came to tell me about a new housing program and I cried when I got it. This option gives young people like me a safe space to heal and a sense of trust in the system again. I’m going to school to study early childhood education and working at the public library.”

Imani Gordon

Age 22

Pleasant Hill, California

“I didn’t always see myself going to college, but I don’t want to settle for a basic 9-5 job. I want to build a long-term career, something that will give me stability for the next thirty, forty years. It’s already hard being a foster youth, we are on our own.”

Olivia Penalber

Age 24

Boyle Heights, California

“I work hard to pay my bills, feed my kids, keep them in clean clothes and shoes that fit. My dream is to move to Riverside where it’s cheaper and I can get away from all the people and places I’ve known my whole life. I want to pursue my education and work in women’s health someday.”