2012 Outstanding Young Leaders

Kalyn D is very involved in her community. She was nominated to serve a year on the board of Strong Able Youth Speaking Out (SaySo), a statewide association of youth aged 14 to 24 who are or have been in the out-of-home care system in North Carolina. During her time... Read more

As the first to go to college in her family, Crystal W has a bright future. She has had a helping hand from her Transitional Living Program and credits the program with guiding her to finish high school early, helping her get into college, and secure her own apartment and... Read more

Kyle V checks out the situation, thinks about options, makes a decision, then springs into action. He’s not attracted to joining organizations just for the membership, but when Kyle sees a need, he jumps in. When there’s a call to help out a member of his church, Kyle’s ready to... Read more

Michael Pease is a 23-year-old graduate student whose previous experiences included 7 ½ years in Missouri’s foster care system. His story is one of persistence, and he is continuing to climb. One of Michael’s adult supporters said, “Michael triumphed over many adversities to become a very successful young man. Many... Read more

The hometown of Latosha P prides itself on it’s reputation of being “warm & friendly” and Latosha’s nominator for the Outstanding Young Leaders Award would agree that the town’s distinction has rubbed off on the 17-year old. Having spent time in 9 different foster homes during her 6 years in... Read more

Charles likes being around people. One of his jobs is as a DJ in the company he owns (he also works in a factory) which requires communication skills and, in a way, a desire to serve others. Friends describe him as energetic and enthusiastic. He works hard at getting others... Read more

At 17, Heather Hedges-Pegler is a star player for her Regional and State Youth Advisory Boards; she attends every meeting and helps other youth with advice and activities. Her teachers at school also look to her as a star player, being always friendly and helpful. At church, the pastor can... Read more

Nathan C of Joplin, Missouri has been enrolled at Missouri Southern State University, a general studies major. He knows his pursuit of higher education moves him in the right direction toward independence regarding his future. While in high school, Nathan served as vice-president of his senior class and as a... Read more

Melinda has a lot of enthusiasm for life and her great attitude takes her far. In two foster homes and one residential facility, she acknowledges that one of the biggest challenges growing up in the system was not being able to see her biological family whenever she wanted. She admits... Read more

Nineteen year-old Zach A has spent the past seven years in Missouri’s foster care system, and has found his voice as an active stakeholder and advocate for those in similar situations. Zach is involved in both his local and state Youth Advisory Council, actively participating in meetings for over a... Read more