SUCCESS STORIES — Cassandra, age 18

Cassandra was raised by her grandmother. Her mother was drug addicted and her father died when she was twelve years old. Cassandra is an extremely independent, resourceful young woman. In addition to obtaining a scholarship for high school, she has worked consistently for the past five years. She is extremely intelligent and will attend the University of the Pacific in the fall. Cassandra's social workers came to us twice this year on her behalf—the first time for a bicycle and the second time for prom expenses. Cassandra came by personally to drop off her handmade thank you card. This is what she wrote:

“Dear Youth Auxiliary,
Thank you so much for all that you have done. I really appreciated the $150 that you gave me for Prom because it let me enjoy the night without worrying about needing the money for something else. I think that it is so important to have money available to foster youth that show an active need and desire for it because many of us are used to negative reinforcement as oppose to positive reinforcement.

Aside from the prom money, I also want to thank you for the bike money. I have wanted a bike for years, but I could never bring myself to spend $500 for a good bike, lock and helmet. The $450 that you gave me helped immensely. Since Friday, when I got my new bike, we have been virtually inseparable. I ride it to school, work, and home everyday. I love it. It saves me time and gives me a chance to work out, both of which are very important to me. This bike is a lifesaver. I don't know how to thank you enough.”

Please click on the links below to read other Success Stories.

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