Josephine Graham

Josephine and her siblings were placed in separate foster homes when entering care. Although she was never placed in a residential setting, her siblings were. Josephine was recommended for Independent Living the summer before her senior year of high school. She obtained an apartment, was employed and an active participant on the (JYCOI) youth board during this year. Josephine graduated and was accepted to Western Michigan University. She has excelled academically, continued to provide love and support for her siblings, is an outstanding example of a young person who is determined to overcome obstacles with a positive attitude and commitment. She is pursuing a degree in Social Work and plans to direct an agency serving foster youth someday. Josephine will soon work with the Dept. of Human Services in Michigan to assist in developing a Registered Student Organization at WMU for current and former foster youth to aid in the support and retention of students while living on campus. She was one of five representatives from the State of Michigan at the Jim Casey Site Conference in St. Louis in 2008. She has also spoken to many in her community through panel discussions, individual presentations, and has had a tremendous influence on her community. Josephine understands the power of using her voice and her experiences to influence others. She continues to lead her peers through the youth board and to encourage them to advocate for themselves.