Perseverance and determination are qualities that Carmen exudes, which were apparent when her LCYC attorney, Sandy, met her. At only 15 years old, Carmen had already been in a difficult situation for the past two years. Her mother was deemed an unsafe parent due to abuse in the home and she was not in communication with her father, so Carmen began living with a relative. Unfortunately, this custody arrangement also consisted of abusive behaviors. Seeking help, she contacted her father, who agreed to help, but then moved to Mexico. Having nowhere to go, Carmen found herself at the local shelter for homeless youth.
When a minor enters a shelter, shelters must notify the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF). Carmen was connected with DCYF and given a caseworker, who recommended she reach out to LCYC. After meeting with Sandy and exploring her options, Carmen decided that pursuing emancipation would be the most beneficial avenue to reach her goals of independence and self-autonomy.
While working on her emancipation petition, Sandy connected Carmen with Elizabeth Alonso, a Homeless Youth and Young Adult System of Care Navigator at the Blue Mountain Action Council (BMAC). Elizabeth assisted Carmen in finding housing and paying the initial move-in costs. Carmen also was supported by Madelin Arbogast, a Case Manager at Catholic Charities of Central Washington in independent living skills and planning for her future.
Carmen’s petition for emancipation was successful and has given her control to make her own decisions. Currently, she is working toward obtaining her driver’s license with the help of Catholic Charities. In the future, Carmen wants to be a veterinarian due to her love of animals and passion to care for them. She enjoys drawing, exploring the outdoors, and watching scary movies.
Carmen’s story is an example of how different agencies partnered to help a youth improve her situation. We wish Carmen luck with her future endeavors and have no doubts that her perseverance will lead to many future successes!