Team 23 - Transition to Tomorrow

Inspiration

Youth aging out of child welfare face an abrupt transition with little stability or support. Loss of housing, financial security, and adult guidance puts them at high risk of homelessness. Existing university pathways prioritize tuition costs but ignore basic needs like housing and food. Expecting youth to manage trauma, new responsibilities and a full course load is unrealistic.

What it does

DEI initiative to fund residence, tuition & meals (Pilot of 4 equity deserving youth) Flexible academic pacing (2–3 courses/term) Builds belonging and full integration through shared housing, mentorship, and campus engagement Uses existing systems to deliver long-term supportive transition into adulthood

How we built it

Mapped gaps in current supports for youth aging out of care Consulted research on transitional-age youth, community needs & homelessness prevention Designed a flexible housing + education model that integrates rather than segregates Planned partnerships with CAS, school boards, uOttawa housing, SASS & wellness services Created a funding structure using community donors, alumni sponsorship & existing programs

Challenges we ran into

Ensuring the program avoids stigma and promotes full integration. Making sure youth are included naturally on campus without stigma or separation. Creating an environment where youth feel genuinely included, not identified or treated as a separate group.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Creating a feasible, compassionate program that centers youth well-being and winning the sub-theme for transitional aged youth.

Built With

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