P.A.T.H. Partnering, Assisting, and Transforming for Higher Education

P.A.T.H. Foster Youth Program

Alamo Colleges District's P.A.T.H. Foster Youth Program: Empowering Foster Youth for College Success.


The Alamo Colleges District Partnering, Assisting, and Transforming for Higher Education (P.A.T.H.) Foster Youth Program is designed to support foster and adopted youth and help them navigate the path to college success. Situated within all five Alamo Colleges District advocacy centers, the program ensures that foster youth receive the support they need.


Under the leadership of Dr. Leticia Duncan-Brosnan, Director of the District-Wide Student Advocacy Network for the Alamo Colleges District, the P.A.T.H. Program is making strides in achieving the district’s moonshot of partnering to end poverty through education and training.

Comprehensive Support for Foster Youth

The P.A.T.H. Program offers comprehensive support tailored to the unique needs of foster youth by offering:

  • Student Care Advocates: Staff provides personalized support and guidance to former foster and adopted youth.
  • Certified Advisors: Advisors offer academic support and help students set and achieve their educational goals.
  • Referrals to Services: Eligible foster students can receive referrals to various services provided by the Alamo Colleges District and its community partners.
  • Emergency Aid: Provides financial support for foster youth in need.


The program's services include: Food Assistance, Housing Assistance, Child Care Assistance, Clothes Closet, Emergency Funding, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Benefits


Bridging the Education Gap

Research highlights a significant challenge faced by foster youth in higher education. According to the National Foster Youth Institute, less than 3% of youth with a history of foster care earn a four-year degree. Over the years, the Alamo Colleges District has become a leader in fostering higher education opportunities, annually enrolling the most significant percentage of foster youth in Texas. In 2019, the P.A.T.H. program received a grant through a collaboration involving the five Alamo Colleges, the University of Texas at San Antonio, Texas A&M-San Antonio, Bexar County Children’s Court and Child Advocates San Antonio. The Alamo Colleges District is committed to supporting foster youth through its collaboration with Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) workers. This partnership ensures that PAL caseworkers can assist foster youth in obtaining tuition waivers. These waivers cover all tuition and fees, allowing students to pursue higher education—whether it be an associate degree, bachelor's degree, or even multiple doctorate degrees. 


Making a Difference

The impact of the Alamo Colleges District P.A.T.H. Foster Youth Program is evident in graduation rates and the fields of study chosen by its students. The P.A.T.H. Program helps over 500 students earn a certificate or degree each year. Many students pursue biosciences, social work or criminal justice degrees. For those interested in learning more or getting involved, visit P.A.T.H. Foster Youth Program or submit an inquiry at P.A.T.H. Inquiry Form.

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