BeREAL FAQ's
What is the mission of BeREAL?
BeREAL’s mission is to invest time, talent, and resources to increase access to and success in higher education for youth in foster care by connecting them to a comprehensive support network that includes individualized mentorship and academic, financial, and life skills services.
Where is BeREAL located?
The BeREAL offices and gathering space are presently in New Orleans East; however, staff and mentors meet with youth throughout the greater New Orleans area.
How does BeREAL fulfill its mission?
Education: Help with the nuts and bolts of applying for college and vocational schools, including financial aid forms and academic counseling, and tutoring.
Career: Resource information about career interests, coordination of education and career goals, basic training in the job application process, and facilitation of job shadow/intern opportunities through relationships with specific career mentors.
Social/Support Network: Provide and nurture permanent connections and exposure to positive role models in a highly individualized and relational environment.
How is BeREAL funded?
BeREAL is supported by grants, gifts and donations from private individuals, foundations, and corporations.
How do youth come to BeREAL?
Foster youth are referred by Louisiana’s Department of Children & Families Services (DCFS), CASA New Orleans, youth referrals, and other agencies serving foster children.
How are youth selected for BeREAL?
BeREAL selects foster youth who demonstrate aspirations for post-secondary education, motivation and potential to become productive adults. The youth apply for the program, are interviewed, and sign a contract.
Does BeREAL set goals for youth?
Yes, BeREAL youth are required to create a plan that is youth driven but guided by the Transition Coach.
Goals are set for Education, Career, and Social/Support Network with benchmarks.
The Plan and goals are shared with caregiver, DCFS, and Mentor. Goals are reviewed every six-months and a yearly re-evaluation is conducted.
How can the community get involved with BeREAL?
BeREAL offers four types of volunteer opportunities. Mentors – long-term, direct involvement with youth, Gap Team – short term opportunity to fill a gap such as tutoring, helping with taxes, etc., Program Volunteer – perform specific tasks for BeREAL, Sponsor – if you’re able to give money rather than time, your gift will help with needs and necessities such as food, clothing, bus passes etc..
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