On January 16, 2026, Ready for Life proudly celebrated 17 years of Changing Lives Beyond Foster Care, and what a journey it has been!
In 2009, David Fischer, Gerry Hogan, and Bud Risser came together around a bold idea: that no young adult should age out of the foster care system without support, guidance, and opportunity. They enlisted our CEO Kathy Mize and their shared vision sparked the creation of Ready for Life as a community-based solution to bridge the gap from foster care to independence.
What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a vibrant community of hope, opportunity, and belonging. Over the past 17 years, Ready for Life has walked alongside thousands of young adults and their children, helping them move from uncertainty to stability through education, employment, housing support, life skills, and a network of people who truly care.
Every milestone reached, every GED earned, every job secured, and every family strengthened tells the story of what happens when resilience is met with opportunity. From the early days with a few desks and big dreams to today’s expanding programs and services like the Spark Lab and the Family HOPE Center, Ready for Life continues to evolve to meet the real needs of the young adults we serve.
“The young adults we serve are not defined by where they came from. They are defined by their resilience, their dreams, and their determination. Our role is simply to listen to what they need, remove barriers that stand in the way of progress, and make sure opportunity is within reach.”
— Kathy Mize, CEO
This anniversary isn’t just about how far we’ve come: it’s about who made it possible. The incredible former foster young adults—The Youth Voice—our volunteers, mentors, staff, board and council members, donors, and community partners: we have built something extraordinary together. You are the bridge that helps transform resilience into independence and lasting change.
As we step into the next year, we do so with deep gratitude and unwavering optimism for what lies ahead. Thank you for believing in the young people we serve, investing in their futures, and being part of a community that proves every day that the cycle can be broken.
Here’s to 17 years of outstanding hope, continuous growth, and many lives changed—and the work continues!
Read the full newsletter from January 2026:
