Toronto, ON – In September 2023, Victoria was referred to StepStones for Youth for rent subsidy and mentorship support. What she discovered was more than she expected. From the moment she joined StepStones, Victoria felt an overwhelming sense of belonging—a feeling that’s often elusive for youth in care. Not only did she receive help stabilizing her housing and meeting a long-term, one-to-one mentor, StepStones also provided a community where she could truly be herself.
For many young adults from care like Victoria, finding a place where you belong is difficult. But Tuesday dinners became a time for her to share laughs and stories with others who understood her journey, field trips turned into opportunities to explore the world around her, and annual Christmas parties, complete with gifts, filled her with warmth and joy during a time of year that she had often felt isolated and alone.
The support Victoria received from StepStones empowered her to overcome one of the biggest challenges in her life: completing high school. With encouragement, she not only graduated but also gained the confidence to take the next step in her education. Victoria is now pursuing a General Arts and Science diploma at George Brown College, the first step in fulfilling a childhood dream of attending university to study psychology.
Victoria is proud of what she’s achieved so far and excited about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. Her journey with StepStones has helped her find her place in the world and she has said that she’ll be forever grateful for the staff at StepStones who believed in her when she needed it most and for their unwavering support. Given the opportunity and right guidance, and with hard work and determination, Victoria can focus on reaching her goals and potential, and she’s prepared to face the challenges tomorrow might bring.
Sharing stories like Victoria’s is essential because they highlight the transformative power of connection and community. They demonstrate the tangible impact of mentorship and support, and how young people can be empowered to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. These stories not only celebrate individual achievements but also inspire others facing similar challenges, showing them that they have the right to achieve their goals too, and that StepStones is here to help them.
