KRA Corporation (KRA) is thrilled to announce a new collaborative initiative with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)/Prince George’s County, Inc. aimed at delivering comprehensive support to transition-aged foster youth in Prince George’s County. This partnership is designed to empower young individuals as they navigate the important transition into adulthood, providing them with the skills and resources essential for successful independent living.
KRA’s Career-Pathways Program, known as EAGER (Empowering and Assisting Graduates in Employment Readiness), facilitates a smooth transition for youth who have aged out of the foster care system during or shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative is funded through KRA’s ongoing partnership with Employ Prince George’s (EPG).
A Shared Vision for Empowerment
The collaboration between KRA, CASA, and EPG harnesses the unique strengths of each organization to establish a robust support network. This network offers career readiness, educational opportunities, and vital life skills training specifically tailored for foster youth in Prince George’s County.
“We believe that by working together, we can create lasting change in the lives of these young people,” said Dr. Tamika Hood, Director of Board Administration at Employ Prince George’s. “This partnership is just the beginning of what we hope will be a long and successful collaboration.”
Collaborative Efforts for Greater Impact
CASA will play a crucial role as a referral partner, identifying and assessing transition-aged foster youth who are either close to aging out of the system or have recently done so and are seeking employment or educational opportunities. This collaboration with KRA ensures that these young individuals receive personalized support that addresses their specific needs.
“KRA’s commitment to empowering underserved populations aligns perfectly with CASA’s mission,” said Yolanda Johnson, Executive Director of CASA. “This partnership is a significant step forward in providing the comprehensive support these youth need to succeed.”
Comprehensive Support Services
The EAGER Program offers a broad range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of its participants, including:
- Career Readiness & Upskilling: Customized training programs to prepare youth for the workforce.
- Employment Leads & Job Placement: Access to job opportunities that align with participants’ skills and interests.
- Training Opportunities: Support in accessing vocational training, apprenticeships, and other educational programs.
- Life Skills Development: Workshops focused on essential life skills, such as financial literacy and time management.
- Dedicated Job Fairs: Exclusive events that connect program participants with potential employers.
“We are honored to partner with CASA and EPG to make a meaningful impact on these youth. Together, we are commited to providing the resources and opportunities they need to build a successful future,” said Derrick Colbert, KRA Director of Strategic Partnerships.
Join Us in Making a Difference
KRA and CASA invite community members, organizations, and potential partners to get involved in this vital mission. Together, we can significantly affect the lives of transition-aged foster youth in Prince George’s County, helping them pave the way to a brighter future. For more information about the EAGER Program or to learn how you can contribute, please contact us at info@kra.com or Jeanmarie Graves at jgraves@pgcasa.org