As you may know, teens around the globe who age-out of institutional care at the age of 18 must figure out what to do with their futures. Good opportunities are few and horrendous ones are many.
Rohan’s story is a remarkable one of determination. At the delicate age of six, he and his three younger brothers were left to be cared for by his grandparents. But providing for all four boys proved to be a struggle for the grandparents. One day, without warning, they informed Rohan that he would be moving to a local boys’ home in India.
Rohan worked diligently to complete his schooling but didn’t know what to expect or dream for his future. Once he turned 18, he “aged out” of the boys home.
Thank God Rohan was not left to figure it out all alone! Providentially, he lived in a part of India that has a wonderful AFFEO-supported “aftercare” program for teens like him who do not have a strong family foundation. This program provides teens with life skills training, including financial management and social skills, along with college and career guidance.
Rohan’s program mentor helped him explore job opportunities. One way he did this was to strongly encourage Rohan to identify skills and talents that brought him joy. Rohan recalled how much he loved cooking for his friends in the boys’ home and the many compliments he received. But he had never thought of cooking professionally, nor how to pursue it as a career. He did know that he was a good cook and enjoyed the work, so he decided to become a chef.
Rohan’s mentor helped him identify and apply to a university. After completing his education and receiving his university certificate, Rohan quickly secured an apprenticeship with a prestigious hotel. He is now a chef in an upscale restaurant!
Please pray with Rohan as he settles into his job. And remember in prayer the other 50,000 youth in India who leave institutional care annually, facing many and varied challenges upon reaching adulthood.
Your prayers support many who are seeking to (1) receive invaluable guidance, (2) acquire a certificate through a prominent university, (3) secure a stable job—and (4) reach independence. Praying for teens to meet the challenges associated with leaving institutional care is essential—your prayers could be instrumental in helping them break the cycle of orphanhood! Thank you for remembering Rohan, and others like him, so they can build a brighter future.
