FCCS Celebrates Foster Youth Graduating in Class of 2024

Rylie Wilson is preparing for a big move. This Fall, her new home will be a dorm room at Bowling Green State University, and it will be the first time that she will be on her own after being in foster care. 

Rylie is one of 61 teens in the care of Franklin County Children Services who graduated high school or earned their GEDs this spring as members of the Class of 2024.

In June, FCCS celebrated their achievements with a special graduation party bringing together friends, families, volunteers, mentor, and caseworkers.

“This event is always a highlight of my year because the stories of success we will hear tonight are what fuel the work of Franklin County Children Services year-round. And in each of these young people, I hear and see stories of success that are filled with achievement over adversity,” said Chip Spinning, FCCS Executive Director. 

Change and adversity has been frequent for 17-year-old Rylie, who entered foster care when she was 14. 

Overcoming childhood trauma and abrupt moves, Rylie says she has managed to thrive. “I’ve been able to keep my personality and my kindness to everyone the same even though I went through very hard times. It could easily change a person, but it made me stronger.”  

Her caseworker Ebony Giddens agrees. “[Rylie] has continued to be a sweet compassionate person through everything she has gone through.” 

Ms. Giddens also lauds Rylie’s recent achievements, which include receiving the 2024 FCCS Alvin Hadley Scholarship and the 2024 FCCS Rising Up and Moving on Award. “I’ve watched [Rylie] come out of her comfort zone and do things that have made her uncomfortable, but it has pushed her to succeed and do even more,” said Ms. Giddens.

During the FCCS graduation celebration, Director Spinning noted, “I also know that the stories of success for this Class of 2024 have been written by many hands. We can’t forget to thank and honor those who helped each of our graduates: from mentors and caseworkers, teachers and tutors, and especially the families, volunteers, and caring adults in their lives.”

Several community partners contributed gifts for each graduate, including a suitcase filled with home and dorm room supplies, a tool kit, blankets and sheets, an official resolution from the City, and gift cards. Among the major supporters were: the Junior League of Columbus, CME Federal Credit Union, Columbus City Council, Franklin County Board of Commissioners, Franklin County Job and Family Services, the FCCS Citizens Advisory Committee, New Hope Church, the OSU Extension Center, and Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio.

Rylie credits several people for helping her become a successful young adult whose now headed to college, including Ms. Giddens, whom she said, “is easy to talk to.” 

She also maintains close ties with her sisters, who helped her during difficult moments. “They hung out with me more, and we did fun things.” 

Rylie received a great deal of support and a loving home from her current foster parents Maggie and Austin Baxter. According to Rylie, Ms. Baxter really helped her adjust when she came to live with a new family. 

“There were times when I was really depressed and she brought me out of my dark hole,” she said. “I wouldn’t be where I am without Maggie Baxter.” 

At Bowling Green, Rylie will study marine biology and veterinary medicine. When asked where she would like to see herself in five years, Rylie answered: “I’d like to have a job working with animals. It’s been my dream since I was little.”

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