AFFIRMED MISSIONS

My name is Yolanda Cotton and I am the founder/executive director of Affirmed Missions, Inc (AMI). As someone that was once in the foster care system, I have a personal connection with this cause. I have always been passionate about helping others. Throughout my adult years I have volunteered with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. While being a Big to young ladies in the foster system, I saw firsthand the lack of available support. Unfortunately, children that are in the foster care system often have no one, let alone support or resources to help them. Even with some support, I still struggled with the transition into adulthood; I learned many things the hard way. At the age of 17, I went away to college and have been independent since then. There are so many lessons I had to learn on my own. I want to help support these young women navigate through such a difficult time. 40-50% of former foster youth become homeless within 18 months after leaving care and 25% will be in prison..

Also known as: Affirmed Missions, Inc.

Primary location: Willoughby United States