October 20, 2024
Pod Friends is an innovative new creative skill-building initiative by Born On Purpose, designed to empower transition-aged youth (18 to 23) in Broward County on the cusp of aging out of the foster care system. Using a Positive Youth Development approach, this program leverages podcasting to breed resilience among its participants by increasing individual, peer, and community protective factors, equipping young people with the tools and support necessary to navigate the challenges of transition into adulthood and deter delinquency. By providing a nurturing environment and relevant instruction, Pod Friends aims to transform the trajectory of participants' lives, boosting self-reliance, interpersonal skills, and a sense of belonging within their communities. With an emphasis on creative expression and skill-building, the program facilitates a supportive network of peers, mentors, and resources, empowering these individuals to thrive beyond the constraints of their past experiences. The program will implement two 8-week seasons a year, Fall and Spring, and expects to serve ten youth per season (twenty youth per year).