Malik’s Rise Beyond Foster Care 

Malik Searching for Stability 

Malik, age 19, had recently aged out of foster care. Without family support or stable income, he was moving between temporary living situations with friends and extended family. 

Barriers to Independence 

Like many young adults facing housing insecurity, Malik encountered multiple barriers at once: lack of steady housing, limited income, no formal diploma, and little awareness of local support programs.  

Stephanie Summers and RHA’s Holistic Support 

Malik came to Rockford Housing Authority after a referral from a local shelter staff member. That’s when he met Stephanie Summers, Section 8 Program Manager and the coordinator of YouthBuild Rockford. Stephanie assessed Malik’s situation and provided him with realistic options. 

She offered guidance on the Section 8 housing application process, while also introducing him to YouthBuild a program specifically designed for youth ages 16–24 who want to earn their GED and gain trade skills. Stephanie didn’t just connect him to one service she helped him build a long-term plan. 

Step-by-Step Toward Self-Sufficiency 

Together, Stephanie and Malik outlined two clear steps: 

1. Apply for Section 8 Housing – While on the waitlist, Stephanie helped Malik access short-term transitional housing through a community partner organization, ensuring he had a safe place to stay. 

1. Enroll in YouthBuild Rockford – Malik joined the next YouthBuild cohort, committing to earn his GED and gain construction-related experience while receiving a small stipend. 

The structure gave him a realistic timeline, achievable goals, and ongoing support from staff mentors. 

Consistent Participation 

The key to Malik’s progress was showing up. YouthBuild required commitment attending classes, participating in hands-on training, and staying engaged with staff. A Foundation for the Future 

Nine months later, Malik had: 

• Earned his GED 

• Gained construction safety certifications 

• Completed a paid internship on a local community building project 

• Secured a Section 8 housing voucher and signed a lease for his own apartment 

Programs like Section 8 and YouthBuild Rockford  don’t solve every problem, but they provide structure and access to opportunity especially when staff like Stephanie Summers are actively guiding participants through each stage.