“Today is an opportunity to look ahead with hope and optimism. As you embark on this new journey, may you aspire to achieve even greater things, set audacious goals and protect those goals always.” – Adianna Paul

Dream BIG Keynote Speaker  |  Listen to her inspiring remarks

This June, Children’s Institute’s Dream BIG Graduation celebrated the incredible youth enrolled in CII’s Individualized Transition Skills Program. The keynote for the evening was educator, Stanford graduate and alumna of CII’s foster youth program, Adianna Paul, who not only delivered an inspiring message to youth but who also sat in their place just a few years ago.

The evening was filled with words of encouragement from CII staff. Guests enjoyed the DJ stylings of Lani Love and a delicious spread of summer foods from In-N-Out and Donny Joubert’s BBQ. Each graduate received a duffel bag with CII swag essentials and a $300 gift card for anything they might need as they move on to career and college. This was made possible by the generous support of The Colleagues, a philanthropic organization that understands that an investment in our youth is an investment in the future of Los Angeles.

We are so thankful to the community who came out to support these amazing young people as they began their next chapter in life.

We are so thankful to the community who came out to support these amazing young people as they began their next chapter in life.

Support life-changing work like CII’s foster youth program. Give Today. 

 

 

 

 

Check out a fun recap reel on Children’s Institute’s Instagram! Follow CII on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date on the latest celebration.

 

 

 

 

Thank you to Wendy Bermeo @wendystylez and a special shout-out to @onyxnail_lounge for donating their time and resources to provide hair, makeup and nail tech services to our graduates.