Valentine cards and treats aren’t just for elementary school students to send and receive. At the beginning of February, the nonprofit organization Ready to Succeed (RTS) hosted supporters, staff and alumni to create care packages for foster youth in college.
It all started with Romi Lassally and Patrick McCabe, who each built successful careers in the entertainment industry whilst dedicating themselves to a number of organizations working with foster youth. The two nonprofit veterans saw the gap in emotional support and professional resources for college-going foster youth. Fueled by purpose and passion to fill this gap, Lassally and McCabe teamed up to co-found Ready to Succeed. What sets RTS’s scholarship and internship programs apart from the rest is their approach towards practical academic and career-building support.
RTS has now expanded its network with more than 20 companies participating in its Employment Partnership Program and extended its resources to first-generation college students.
Gaining access to resources for academic and professional development is equally as important as receiving emotional care. This year, supporters, staff and alumni were able to broaden this mission at RTS’s first Valentine’s Care Package assembly party. Snacks and sweets, personalized notes and practical, everyday items were curated with love and shipped off to 70 RTS scholars. These thoughtful gifts serve as a reminder to RTS scholars of the community they share and the support they have both near and far.
To learn more visit readytosucceedla.org.
