Life Changing Connections: Summer’s Story

When Summer transitioned out of foster care in the Bay Area, she set her sights on San Diego. Her social worker warned her that she would have fewer connections and resources, but Summer didn’t care. She’d learned life 101 at 16, and nobody was going to crush her dream. 

As Summer settled into her new life, she began making new connections, including to Just in Time for Foster Youth.   

“When I came to JIT, I felt seen, and I connected immediately.” Remembers Summer, “I felt like, ‘They really like me, and they don’t even know me like that!’ and that’s what made me keep going.”  

Summer signed up for almost every JIT service. She attended community events and Empower parties. She even became a Just in Time “Influencer” using her charismatic energy to encourage and motivate her peers to stay engaged, make friends, and have fun! 

In April, Summer embraced a new opportunity with JIT’s collaborative partner Kitchens for Good – a nonprofit apprenticeship program that teaches hospitality, culinary arts and baking. The certification process requires commitment and discipline.  

Summer thrived in the structured setting. In addition to “kitchen math,” and baking techniques, she learned how to work with people, how to take instruction and how to receive criticism. She is now actively looking for baking jobs and is excited to launch a career in a field she hadn’t considered before. 

 “Some people wait to find a passion,” says Summer, “but I believe you can create your passion. You have to try new things, take risks and never stop chasing your dreams.”