Our Bright Futures Home for Teen Mothers has another success story under its belt — 21-year old Karen, who entered the program five years ago and was emancipated this past December. At Bright Futures, emancipation is equivalent to graduation which occurs when a resident ages out of the program. While there, Karen matured from a quiet teenager with many challenges into a responsible, self-assured adult full of ambition and optimism. karen now works as a home health aide and shares a two-bedroom apartment with her six-year old daughter.

I also have bills for the first time, said Karen. But that's O.K. My daughter is so excited to have her very own bedroom, and I'm glad to have just the two of us to clean up after, she added.

Born in El Salvador, Karen was 12 years old when she moved to the United States with her family. At the time she spoke very little English. She eventually dropped out of school and was subsequently working on her GED, but decided to quit three years later. Karen's mother died and her father moved to California, leaving Karen and her siblings with their grandmother. Her grandmother was unable to care for 16-year old Karen and her infant, so Karen joined Bright Futures. She also joined the Israel Baptist Church Elizabeth Ministry Mentors program. She completed all requirements of both programs, which included parenting classes, job training and attending mentoring workshops.

Karen made up her mind early on that she did not want to leave Bright Futures the way she entered — with basically nothing. She enrolled in an area nursing program, earned her Certified Nursing Assistant license, and prepared herself for the future. Bright Futures staff members helped her find an affordable apartment and assisted her with getting all the necessities.

Reflecting on the program, Karen said, Bright Futures is a good program, especially if you work and put effort into being there. The program helped me get myself together.