I am a guardian for my granddaughter who is very intelligent. However, I am not able to provide her the best education tools or support… and I want her to go beyond high school. Is there any help or support for her?

 

Thanks,

Concerned Mee Maw

 

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Dear Concerned Mee Maw,

 

One program that may be of interest to you is the Boys Hope Girls Hope (BHGH) program.  BHGH offers families in the Metro St. Louis Area a long-term educational program for students starting as young as 10-years of age and extending through the completion of a four-year college degree. Children who are selected for enrollment live in the Boys Hope Girls Hope “scholars home” through completion of high school.  Core services include:  preparation for the transition to college, a significant amount of financial assistance, and other support throughout successful completion of college. 

 

The children who come to live in Boys Hope Girls Hope homes love their families and their families love them.  However, their familial relationships are strained which critically undermines the parent’s ability to support their child’s full development.  By “co-parenting” with Boys Hope Girls Hope, parents/guardians continue to play a significant role in the life of their child.

 

Candidates for the program: Are between the ages of 10 – 16; Have average to above average intelligence—learning disabilities will be evaluated on an individual basis; Face serious familial and societal barriers; Are free from serious emotional, behavioral, and academic problems; Have parental/guardian support for out of home placement (Note: This is not a foster care placement or a “traditional residential” placement. Caregivers maintain legal custody.); Have the desire to participate in in-school and co-curricular activities; Can be motivated to succeed in school and life.

 

For more information on Boys Hope Girls Hope visit their website, www.boyshopegirlshope.org. If you know a student who may qualify please call 314.692.7477 or e-mail hopestlouis@bhgh.org. If you have any other educational questions, please contact me at 800.FOSTER.3 x37, or at leslielewis@foster-adopt.org.

 

Respectfully,

Leslie Lewis