FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2008
For more information contact:
Benny Samuels, Denver Human Services, (720) 944-1422 or Benilda.Samuels@denvergov.org
Laura Koppel, Denver Human Services, (720) 944-2342 or Laura.Koppel@denvergov.org
Denver Human Services congratulate successful foster care youth with graduation celebration Thursday, May 8
Denver, Colo.— The Denver Department of Human Services (DDHS) invites media to a very special graduation on Thursday, May 8 that will honor 30 youth in foster care who received a diploma, GED or certificate from a vocational or other educational program this past year.
Graduation is a special day for any student, but it is particularly special for foster care students whose path to success is unusually challenging. Graduates will share their success stories and their vision for the future, highlighting this year’s theme, If You Dream It, You Can Achieve It.
WHAT: 19th Annual Foster Youth Graduation Ceremony
WHEN: Thursday, May 8, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
WHERE: Denver Department of Human Services
1200 Federal Blvd. Rooms 3109-3113
RSVP: To Laura Koppel at (720) 944-2342, cell: (303)330-5616, Laura.Koppel@denvergov.org
NEWS, FEATURE AND PHOTO OPPORTUNITY TO INCLUDE:
· Keynote Speaker: Mayor John Hickenlooper
· Guest Speaker: Valerie Brooks, DDHS Interim Manager
· Presentation of DDHS’ 5th Annual Independent Living Scholarship
· Speeches by graduating youth*
· Entertainment – Family Crisis Center Hip Hop Troupe
· Interviews with graduating youth*
· Emcee: Ranae Walker, Youth Services Administrator
The DDHS Independent Living Program assists youth emancipating from foster care become self-sufficient by helping them continue their education, find employment, locate safe and stable housing and cultivate supportive relationships in their communities.
In April 2008, there were 955 children in foster home placements. Of those children, 93 were age 15 and older.
*The media is asked not to take photos of the faces of the foster youth in order to protect confidentiality. Interviews will be made available with specific youth who have photo releases.
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