First Star, Inc

Empowering Foster Youth Through Education: Join Us at First Star UM Academy

There are over 400,000 foster youth in the U.S., and more than 3,000 in Miami-Dade County. Removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect, these youth face enormous challenges: nationally, only 50% graduate high school, and fewer than 3% earn a bachelor’s degree. At First Star Academy at the University of Miami, we’re changing those odds. Our four-year program includes a summer residential academy and monthly Saturday sessions to provide academic support, life skills, and mentorship. It works—our most recent cohort had a 100% high school graduation rate, and 78% of those students are continuing in college or postsecondary programs.

One First Star alumna entered foster care at 13. Her future was uncertain—but when she joined First Star, everything changed. She found support, stability, and guidance. She returned as a mentor and is now pursuing a Master’s in Education at Florida State University. Her story is powerful—but it shouldn't be rare. With your support, we can make her success the norm. Every contribution makes a difference:

• $13 – Provides one hour of academic support for one student

• $25 – Funds one student’s field trip

• $70 – Covers breakfast and lunch for one student at a Saturday academy

• $384 – Provides summer transportation to 9 academies for one student

• $1,100 – Covers a field trip for 45 students

• $3,150 – Provides 45 lunches for 9 Saturday sessions

• $5,300 – Sponsors one student for one summer

• $10,200 – Sponsors one student for a full year

Together, we can break cycles, change statistics, and empower foster youth to thrive in school, college, and life.