From Abandoned to Loved!
I was born and raised surrounded by alcohol, drugs, and sex by the time I was 5 years old and was basically the mother of my 3 younger siblings (so I felt). One day my mom abandoned me at school. My teacher took me home, and after a few days called child protective services. I was sent to foster care. That was 10 years ago!
After some time being in foster care I got the opportunity to attend camp. I just had my 18thbirthday and this past summer was my last time attending TLC. Each year I was able to see the same counselors. I look forward to camp each year; it’s a community of people who really care about you. Each year as camp ends we all make a pact to see each other again in one year. My first year at camp my counselor and I really bonded and she has been a mentor ever since. As my last year of school ends and I am exploring the direction of life she is right there with me with each decision. She has been the one consistent person in my life for multiple years now.
My life has changed in so many ways from attending camp and being matched with a mentor. You can be a part of changing a life like mine.
-become a camp counselor – become a long term mentor- provide resources for Teen Leadership Foundation to continue its programs.
Elissa; former camper and emancipated youth