Nevaeh's Story

Nevaeh was just six years old when she lost her mother and she was placed in foster care, an event that echoed throughout her life. In high school, she often missed classes and saw her grades slip. In her sophomore year, she was placed on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to provide her with additional support. She was also introduced to Pivotal, and her coach Sarah. 

Nevaeh, age 3

“I was kind of nervous. I didn’t really know how it was going to work out and at first, I didn’t show up at all and wouldn’t answer her calls,” Nevaeh remembers. “But one day, she just called and asked if I wanted to hang out and said she was on her way. We got coffee and we started talking about school, life, and what I was going through. And we haven’t stopped talking since!” 

For Nevaeh, Pivotal’s support went beyond academics. “Sarah made sure I was OK emotionally. She took me to events like the Pivotal Holiday party, which was really cool. We got presents and got to eat really good food.” 

"As Pivotal coaches, our goal is to create a safe space where youth feel supported to open up. We lead with empathy and compassion, and our priority is always what’s best for the scholar,” says Sarah Rodriguez, Nevaeh’s post-secondary coach. “We build their confidence by showing up consistently and without judgment. Foster youth are resilient, and with the right guidance and encouragement, they can recognize their own strength and move forward.” 

With Sarah’s support and her IEP as a guide, Nevaeh’s grades began to improve. She started passing her classes. “Sarah’s the best coach ever! I learned a lot about how to get myself together, bring myself to school, and succeed. She gave me the support that I needed and the help I probably should have had when I was younger." 

Nevaeh also recently participated in one of Pivotal’s Career Days at Comerica, where she explored potential careers in banking, learned about managing finances, and toured the bank. “We got to go into the bank vault and that was awesome because I've never seen a vault like that ever in my life!” 

After graduating from high school in March, Nevaeh is focused on what comes next. Together with Sarah, she’s mapping out a path to college. “I was in a bad place for a little while, but I pushed myself and graduated early so I’m really proud of myself for doing that." 

“I didn’t think I would go to college, but I want to be a positive role model for my younger brother and show him that I can do that. Now I’m trying to figure out what I want to do next. I am going to go to cosmetology school but first I’m going to get a job so I can support myself and hopefully I can start community college in a few months.” 

Having moved out on her own when she turned 18, she first needs to be sure she can take care of herself. “Adulthood is definitely different. It’s hard. Rent is expensive. Everything is expensive and it’s hard to find a job.” 

She’s now hoping to find a job supporting elderly people. “I took care of my grandmothers, and I really liked it. I’d rather work somewhere where I can give to my community.” Most importantly, she’s taking concrete steps to accomplish what she’s set her heart on.  

Nevaeh is still discovering what’s next, but her goals include completing cosmetology school and building a stable career. Down the road, she hopes to explore another passion by enrolling in culinary school. “Maybe I’ll start a family of my own. I’m not really sure.” Nobody has all the answers at 18 and that’s ok. We wish Nevaeh a life full of joy and hope Pivotal’s support can help her with everything she wants to accomplish. 

What advice would she give her 11-year old brother as he begins his journey toward adulthood? “Don’t be ashamed that you need help because nobody’s perfect in our world. Look for the people in your lives who are blessings. Answer the phone. Don’t ignore your blessings. Let these doors open for you.”