At Nuevo Amanecer Latino Children’s Services (NALCS), we recognize that transitional-age youth often leave foster care without the essential life skills needed to succeed on their own. Our Mentoring Program is designed to equip these young people with the confidence, guidance, and tools required for long-term independence and self-sufficiency.
What makes this program unique is that it is led by former foster youth who once received care from NALCS itself. Having graduated from college and joined our team as professionals, these mentors bring both lived experience and practical knowledge to inspire and guide others.
Since 2013, NALCS has proudly provided Independent Living Program (ILP) training and graduated more than 300 youth ages 16–21. Of these participants, 17% have gone on to graduate from high school and pursue higher education through UC, CSU, community colleges, or trade schools—showcasing the program’s lasting impact.
The heart of our program is “The Real World” Independent Living Skills (ILP) training, offered annually to prepare youth for adulthood. Topics include college readiness, financial aid, housing, money management, employment, gang awareness, STI prevention, safe sex education, drug awareness, and access to additional resources for eligible participants.
To strengthen opportunities for youth, NALCS collaborates with a variety of organizations and programs that actively engage in our Real World ILP trainings, offering real-world support and expanded resources.
| Planned Parenthood Pasadena and San Gabriel Valley, Inc. 526 E Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91104 Christina BoothmanCommunity Education Manager | Homeboy Industries 130 W Bruno St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | Los Angeles Job Corps 217 W 11th St., Los Angeles, CA 90015 Blanquita Siongco Admissions Counselor |
| Cal Poly PomonaRenaissance Scholars Program 3801 West Temple Ave., Pomona, CA 91768 Sara Gamez Coordinator | Cal State FullertonGuardian Scholars Program 6828 P.O. Box C-120, Fullerton, CA 92834 Grace Johnson Director | Mt. San Antonio College Extended Opportunity Program & Services Concepcion Toledo EOPS Outreach Specialist |
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Every child deserves a safe, nurturing place to grow. NALCS provides foster care, adoption, and mental health support tailored to each unique need. Contact us today to begin building a brighter future.