2014 Outstanding Young Leaders

Meryssa Baker spent 6 years in New Hampshire's foster care system. Meryssa has been in foster care for six years; she exited foster care in July of 2011 and is currently living on her own. She was placed in care as a young child and again as a teenager. She... Read more

Lucas Lott spent 2 years in Idaho's foster care system. Lucas Lott, 18 of Idaho, utilizes his leadership skills to participate as a major component in the growth of the Idaho Foster Youth Advisory Board, where he regularly leads the group. He is described as fun loving and charismatic, inspiring... Read more

Paulina Astafuroff spent 10 years in California's foster care system. No longer in foster care but living in an adoptive home, Paulina Astafuroff was involved in foster care for 10 years and exited such care in April of 2010. She continues to provide care for her birth mother and her... Read more

Dedrick Leonard spent 2 years in Georgia's foster care system. Dedrick Leonard, age 18 of Georgia, was named the Most Honorable Youth by the Social Organization of Lifting Literacy at an MLK celebration at Emory University. He was also honored as an Outstanding Youth by the DeKalb County Chamber of... Read more

Octavia Lacks spent 5 years in Pennsylvania's foster care system. Octavia Lacks has a lot to be proud of. She is flourishing in her freshman year at Harrisburg Area Community College. She has been a leader with the PA Youth Advisory Board since 2011. She helped organize a fantastic Stakeholder’s... Read more