Gemini’s Commitment to Community Award Recipient, Foster Progress

Gemini’s Commitment to Community Award

Last year, Gemini launched the inaugural award that embodies one of their core values, stewardship. The award provides recognition of non-profits demonstrating exceptional dedication and positive impact within their communities.  

The Commitment to Community Award nomination process began with authorized Gemini re-sellers nominating a local non-profit that makes a difference. In 2023, over 130 501-c3 organizations were nominated for the award. The Commitment to Community Award committee reviewed each nomination and selected three finalists. Then, through rallying votes online, the finalist with the most votes was honored with the award. Gemini, in partnership with the authorized re-seller who nominated them, manufactured signs for each finalist. In addition, they received a $2,500 donation.

Foster Progress was nominated by The Sign Palace. The other finalists, The Littlest Heroes and Clothes To Kids, were nominated by Sign-Age and Becker Signs. All three organizations reflect the spirit of community stewardship and upliftment. After assessing their outstanding commitment to empowering foster care youth, Foster Progress received well-deserved recognition. 

Foster Progress: Belief in Community Action

At the heart of Foster Progress lies a profound belief in the transformative power of stewardship. Foster Progress matches foster care youth with mentors, guiding them through pivotal stages like high school completion and college preparation. Each mentoring session provides invaluable guidance, rewards these individuals with scholarship funds, and aligning with their belief in empowering future leaders. Youth also have access to and are encouraged to participate in the following: 

• Traverse Program: Nurturing youth potential by providing direction through service projects and travel opportunities, shaping tomorrow's community leaders. 
• Training & Workshops: Equipping professionals—caseworkers, caregivers, and educators—with essential knowledge through tailored workshops covering critical topics like understanding trauma's impact on educational outcomes and navigating financial aid for foster youth. This commitment empowers those influencing young lives. 

Foster Progress also advocates for systemic change, removing barriers in the child welfare system and influencing policies at the state and federal levels. They remain committed to program growth, fundraising, and grants. Their focus is expanding the mentoring program to accommodate more students. Winning the award acknowledges their efforts and reaffirms their commitment to the foster care community. With upcoming projects like FAFSA support and a spring fundraiser, Foster Progress is set to continue its impactful journey.