If you do an online search for the definition of the word Achievement, the results include “a thing done successfully, typically by effort, courage, or skill.” That certainly describes Angela O., who received a MARFY Youth Achievement Award this month at their annual banquet. Please take a moment to read the summary, written by Family Treatment Manager Intern William Mori-Ramos, that earned this amazing young woman her award:
In the past academic year, Angela O. has shown amazing improvement in her school performance. At one point in time, she did not take school seriously, and it was questionable whether she would graduate from high school. Now a senior at [High School], Angela has maintained nearly a 4.0 GPA each quarter. This agency has seen Angela give her best effort in school this academic year, and now she is excelling as an honor student. Additionally, Angela’s renewed efforts in school have translated to a desire to attend a four-year university. Angela independently completed the application process for several top-notch programs, including [University], and completed the application for the FAFSA well before the deadline. She has taken the initiative at every step of the college application process.
Finally, Angela has shown a high level of self-motivation. Besides striving for academic prowess, Angela has involved herself in extracurricular activities, such as sports. She tried out for the school wrestling team and saw the season through. We were able to see the improvements she made from the beginning of the season to the end. Also, Angela is currently pursuing summer employment that will allow her to earn and save money as she waits for her first semester of college to begin. It is important to note that her involvement in both sports and work/employment is not a reflection of the decisions made by those around her. Rather, Angela had developed an intrinsic desire to excel and succeed.
Angela is well on her way towards meeting all her treatment goals chosen to prepare her for independent living as well as the goals she has set for herself. As an agency, we are not only proud of her for the hard work she has done and the improvements she has made, but look forward to seeing what she will accomplish next. For these reasons we are pleased to nominate Angela O. for the MARFY Youth Achievement Award.
We are so very proud of Angela and all of the youth in our CHOSEN Treatment Foster Care Program. CHOSEN is recruiting caring families to serve by offering a therapeutic, stable home that will make a difference in the life of a child or youth in need. For more information on becoming a CHOSEN parent, contact Tricia Sakles at 800-621-8834, extension 1120