In August 2008, Jo Leonard launched the R. J. Leonard Foundation in memory of her father, a successful teacher and entrepreneur who had a real respect for education, and a passion for success in all dimensions.

The R. J. Leonard Foundation surrounds resilient and inspired foster care youth in Bucks County with a Community Hug of resources, to give them the support they need at a critical time in their lives. The goal is to empower these young adults with the tools they need to create opportunities, make wise decisions and become self-sufficient. Approximately three percent of foster kids go on to achieve a college degree.

“The odds are stacked heavily against them,” says Jo, Executive Director of the R. J. Leonard Foundation. “Academic support, mentoring, and financial resources are lacking,” she says.

The R. J. Leonard Foundation works to offer qualified foster kids all three of these critical needs through their Community Hug of academic support, college and career guidance, strong professional mentoring, and financial assistance. An integrated advisor or mentor is important in bridging the gap for students navigating education and career life choices.

Generally lacking a social network because of multiple placements, youth in foster care are particularly at-risk. Without it they fall back onto the social welfare and penal systems over and over again.

“These tenacious young adults have struggled to maintain their grades despite an interrupted education, homelessness, loneliness, instability, a lack family connections, role models, and mentors,” states Jo. “They have struggled to come this far, and we’re here to ensure they don’t fall at the last hurdle.”

For more information about the RJLF and its “Community Hug” program visit www.RJLeonardFoundation.org.