Fostering Independence Announces New Executive Director Shana Miller
Shana Miller's Appointment to Lead Fostering Independence Marks a New Era in Supporting Vulnerable Young Adults in Summit County

Fostering Independence, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting vulnerable young adults transitioning from foster care, proudly announces the appointment of Shana Miller as the new Executive Director. With an extensive background in social work and a passion for empowering at-risk youth, Shana brings a wealth of experience and a fresh vision to the organization.

Fostering Independence, since its inception in 2017, has been committed to providing essential support and resources to young adults aging out of foster care and those lacking parental support. The organization, which started by partnering with Boys Hope Girls Hope to provide dorm supplies, has expanded its reach to collaborate with Summit County Children’s Services, Akron Public School Project Rise, and Harmony House.

Shana Miller, the incoming Executive Director, has a remarkable career dedicated to social services and advocacy. Born and raised in Akron, OH, Shana attended The Ohio State University, majoring in Social Work and minoring in Political Science. Her career includes roles at Netcare, Inc., the Ohio Department of Health, New Beginnings Domestic Violence Shelter, and Summit County Children Services. Shana currently is the Director of Community Engagement at the Summit County Continuum of Care.

"I am honored to join Fostering Independence and continue the impactful work initiated by Cecilia O'Donnell," said Shana Miller. "My goal is to build on the strong foundation laid by Cecilia and to expand our programs to reach more young adults in need. Together, we can foster a sense of belonging and empowerment for these youth as they transition into independent adulthood."

Outgoing Executive Director and Founder, Cecilia O'Donnell, expressed her confidence in Shana's leadership: "Shana's dedication and experience make her the perfect choice to lead Fostering Independence. Her vision and commitment to helping vulnerable youth will undoubtedly elevate our organization's impact." Cecilia will remain an active member on the Fostering Independence Board of Directors.

Fostering Independence addresses the critical needs of youth aging out of foster care by providing household items and support. The organization's mission is to equip these young adults with the resources and confidence they need to succeed in their independent lives. The introduction of Shana Miller as Executive Director signals a new chapter of growth and enhanced support for the youth in Summit County.

Fostering Independence is a nonprofit organization established in 2017, focused on assisting vulnerable young adults transitioning from foster care. The organization collaborates with local agencies to provide essential household items, mentoring, and support to foster a sense of independence and confidence in these young adults. By lifting each other up, Fostering Independence believes in creating opportunities for all to succee

About

Fostering Independence has been assisting

vulnerable young adults since 2017. It all began when we partnered with Boys Hope Girls Hope and provided dorm supplies to the scholars heading off to college. Since then, we have worked closely with Summit County Children’s Services, Akron Public School Project Rise and Harmony House to provide dorm and apartment household items to young adults that have aged out of foster care and to young adults that lack parental support through no fault of their own.

Fostering Independence currently serves Summit County young adults who are aging out of the foster care system and young adults aged 18-24 who lack parental support. Generally, at age 18, assistance and custodial rights cease, and many foster teens are left to fend for themselves.

Youth aging out of the foster care system face serious challenges adjusting to life on their own. Studies show many of these youths end up living on the street or incarcerated - lacking both the money for basic life expenses and the social support needed to survive on their own. While turning 18 can be an exciting time for many youths, for those in the foster care system it is a time of high anxiety, stress and uncertainty.

Fostering Independence supports the organizations that are mentoring, advising, and assisting with job training and higher education by providing household items when the young adults obtain housing. We hope to foster a sense of caring and confidence in these young adults and assist them in finding opportunities to succeed. These high-risk and vulnerable youth make up a portion of our society that is often overlooked and they depend on us to provide the support they need to succeed. When we lift each other up, everyone wins.

Volunteer Opportunities

Delivery Coordinator or volunteer

Warehouse/Inventory Manager or volunteer

Receive requests of wish lists items from case workers at Summit County Children’s Services, Project Rise, Harmony House or any other approved partner and organize volunteers to make the delivery. Notify warehouse/inventory of items requested.

Maintain and organize inventory. Notify Executive Director when inventory is low. Obtain request form and pack items for pickup and delivery.

Fundraising

Grant Writing

Collection Drive

Work closely with our Development Director and Resource Director to plan a unique, fun and prosperous evening.

Write, apply for and obtain grants.

Work with our Development Director to organize corporate collection drives.

Social Media

Maintain presence on social media and keep website up to date

Wish Lists

Contact Us

YOU can make a difference today -- by joining our team of volunteers with deliveries, helping in the warehouse/inventory, collection drives, fundraising, grant writing or social media.

If you are interested joining the Fostering Independence Team, we would love to hear from you! Send us a detailed message and we will get back to you as soon as possible. 

Please complete the form below

DONATE

  Please use the Venmo ID or QR code below to make a donation.

We also accept checks mailed to:

Fostering Independence
PO Box 364
Bath, Ohio 44210