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3 Inspiring Women We're Honoring this Black History Month
Black History Month is both a time to celebrate and honor the accomplishments of Black Americans as well as reflect on the inequities and injustices plaguing our country. At Pivotal, we continue to be amazed and inspired by the Black leaders within our Pivotal family who use their voices to educate communities about the Black foster youth experience. Three incredible Black women we’re celebrating this month are Dr. Kizzy Lopez, Sadé A. Daniels, and Shalita O’Neale.
Kizzy...
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Thank you, Senator Beall
By Melissa Johns, Executive Vice President
As election day approaches, all eyes are on the candidates vying for your vote. Amidst all that campaign noise, we want to shine light on someone who isn’t looking for your vote this year: California State Senator Jim Beall. After three decades in public service, Senator Beall has completed his final term representing District 15. As a fierce champion for foster youth, he’s been unwavering in his commitment to see children...
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The Silver Linings of Distance Learning
by Christine Salinas, Manager of Grants and Communications
Parents everywhere are wondering what school will look like this year and worried about the challenges and pitfalls of distance learning. As Pivotal scholars prepare to start the new school year remotely, we asked how they feel about distance learning. Because of their own unique experiences in the foster system, many prefer it over in-person instruction. Here are five things we learned:
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California Senate Bill 150 Is Right for Foster Youth
by Christine Salinas, Grants Manager
We’re thrilled that State Bill 150 is finally on Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk. If signed into law, the bill – authored by 15th District Representative Jim Beall - is expected to increase college retention and graduation rates among current and former foster youth by eliminating barriers to receiving financial aid.
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Social Workers Are Our Unsung Heroes
by Christine Salinas, Grants Manager
It’s no secret that social workers are the unsung heroes of the foster care system. From making tough decisions that will change the course of a young person’s life to advocating for that child’s best interests, these stellar men and women often don’t receive the recognition they deserve.
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Homelessness Is a Barrier to Earning a College Degree
by Christine Salinas, Grants Manager
Homelessness is a deepening problem for college students. Even as California voters passed two propositions expected to battle homelessness in our community, tent encampments continue to grow in cities across the area. Homelessness has reached a watershed moment in California and foster youth scholars are being hit hard by this crisis.
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