ABOUT US
WHO WE ARE
RFL is a solution-based skill center supporting former foster care youth in homelessness prevention, education & employment, and lifeline support networks. RFL offers a unique Educational Learning Lab program; a full-time Mental Health Counselor, through a partnership with the Pinellas County Public Defender's Office; legal services provided through the Community Law Program, supported by the St. Petersburg Bar Association; Mentor Program; Youth Council; Mommy & Me; Keys to Independence; and more.
RFL is a family environment where young people find basic needs like food & meal kits; personal & hygiene supplies; caring support; and have access to laundry and shower facilities. We understand that until immediate basic needs are met, it is nearly impossible to contemplate the future...and RFL believes that all young people deserve the opportunity for a successful future.
our mission
Ready for Life provides the support, resources, and guidance former foster care youth need to successfully
transition to adulthood.
our VISION
Ready for Life assists young adults as they make the challenging transition from foster care to adulthood, preventing homelessness and helping them achieve their goals.
our MESSAGE
We are a family-like community that serves, inspires, and empowers young adults that have transitioned out of foster care to be Ready for Life.
OUR reach
OUR reach
within Pinellas County, Florida
500
YOUTH ARE PART OF THE READY FOR LIFE FAMILY
15
YOUTH GRADUATED COLLEGE IN 2020
YOUTH HAVE SUCCEEDED IN FINDING A JOB IN 2020
73
YOUTH WERE ASSISTED THROUGH THE RFL PANTRY IN 2020
222
145
LITTLE ONES ARE BEING SUCCESSFULLY PARENTED
MEET THE TEAM
MICHELLE WALAG
Vice President of Strategic Partnerships
O: (727) 954-3989 ext. 223
MICHAEL FORSTER
Director of Youth Programs
O: (727) 954-3989 ext. 239
SHADAI SIMMONS
Youth Development Coordinator
O: (727) 954-3989 ext. 225
FALANA SHANNON
Youth Specialist
Supervisor
O: (727) 954-3989 ext. 224
BOARD MEMBERS
Our co-founders were approached about developing a nonprofit that would focus on assisting this population through this transition and thus Ready for Life was created.
David Fischer Gerry Hogan Bud Risser – Co-Founders
Yvette Bean Kenneth Beattie, Chair Kay Dillinger
Susan Doll Melissa Hill Mary Pat McLain Sally McLane
Chrissy Pettineo Bud Risser Kathy Mize, CEO