Mentoring young people in and from foster care in Australia
January 27, 2008
I have recently had the privilege of getting to know Carissa Neal. In a sense, she and I are sisters, since we both have experienced being in foster care.
Carissa is originally from New South Wales. She comes from a background of abuse and neglect.
When Carissa was nine years old, she ran away from home, taking her little brother with her. She tied her hands to her brother’s with a piece of string, so that she wouldn’t lose him.
Foster care saved her life.
Carissa reports that, “There was love and attention. I went to school. I was cared for, emotionally and physically. Most importantly, I was given a chance to be a normal child.”
One of Carissa’s many strengths is her sunshine personality. Her life motto is: “You can’t change your past, but you can change your future!”
When Carissa aged out of care, she entered an independent living program on the Central Coast. She was unprepared for financial independence. She had never been taught about budgeting, credit reports or setting up payment plans for bills. She didn’t have medical insurance, and wasn’t sure how to handle the expense of visiting a dentist when her wisdom teeth came in…
Fortunately, Carissa is skilled at problem-solving, and willing to consult with other people and listen to their ideas. She was equipped by one of her foster parents to make a list of pro’s and con’s while making big decisions.
The faith Carissa has in herself and her abilities, combined with the emotional investment that other people built into her, has undoubtedly contributed to the success that her life is today.
Memories of the challenges that she faced during her childhood and during her transition to adulthood only serve to fuel Carissa’s passion to reach out to other people. She is recently married, after a three-year engagement, and hopes to become a foster parent someday.
Here are some of the ways that Carissa has contributed to the lives of others:
1. Leading focus groups of young people for Streetwize Communications, a national not-for-profit agency that researches and communicates social issues to young people.
2. Serving as a Young Consultant for CREATE for the past six years and assisting with the training of other Young Consultants.
3. Training foster parents and caseworkers.
4. Giving speeches at forums and dinners about her foster care experience
But that’s not enough for Carissa – she wants more!
Her goal is to start a mentoring group in Australia for young people in and from foster care… Foster care mentoring models have had a positive impact in the United States and the United Kingdom.
If you are willing to support Carissa’s efforts, please email her at: carissa@inspire.org.au
Comments
2 Responses to “Mentoring young people in and from foster care in Australia”
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Hi Lisa
I’ve had some contact with Carissa too. She blows me away with her sense and insight. An amazing young woman I hope that many people can help Carissa set up her dream of a mentor service for kids in care.
Who is out there that is willing to extend their corporate social responsibility or even their commitment to the young people in this country and give Carissa a practical hand at making the mentoring dream a reality.
Your support may the the form of helping Carissa to write up her mentoring model, business plan, submit for grants, start a web site, etc, etc.
Come on Australia - one day past Australia Day and our GG’s address on supporting community - who is willing to extend their patriotism and help a fair dinkum Aussie young person?
Thanks Lisa & Megan- Your support on this is really great & inspiriing! I can’t wait to make this opertunity a reaility for all young people in Australia.
I would love any & all help anyone can give me & i can give more info if requested.