Connections to Independence

C2i provides unique programming and advocacy for foster care youth, 14-25, to promote a successful and healthy transition to living independently.

Connections to Independence is a unique organization with a youth-centered and holistic approach to moving youth on to a thriving adulthood post foster care through a healthy mind, body, and soul philosophy.

C2i's Pillars of Work: 

Independent Living Skills (14 - 18) 

Aftercare Services (18+) 

Circle of Support & Youth Leadership

Advocacy

C2i has a focus of five core competencies: 

• Financial Literacy 
• Housing 
• Education
• Employment 
• Personal Wellness

C2i  2023 Program Outcomes:

• 122 unduplicated youth served
• 77% were enrolled in or had completed a post secondary or vocational program
• 78% were stably housed the entire year 
• 24% were diverted from homelessness with C2i support

Compared to national statistics:

• 54% of foster youth earn a high school diploma
• 2% obtain a post-secondary degree 
• 41% of fosters in MN do not have stable housing at the age of 21 

In 2020 and 2021, the number of C2i youth going on to post secondary had dropped to 20%. We're grateful that with new legislation for free higher education for fosters (FIG), we will see this continue to increase beyond our previous years. https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=2491  

C2i attributes these great statistics to genuine relationship development. Providing youth with a genuine, trusting, and nurturing relationship where none has existed before, opens up the world of possibilities for learning. Relationship development coupled with our unique healthy mind, body, and soul programming is the key to our success!

If you'd like to donate directly to C2i - visit https://www.c2iyouth.org/support/make-a-donation/