Phoenix, Ariz. (August 21, 2024) – Students transitioning out of the foster care system will soon have extra support thanks to $150,000 in funding approved by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. HopeTech, a newly built 64-bed residence hall at East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT), will receive support to help young adults exiting foster care to have safe housing while receiving career technical training at EVIT.
“Investing in our young people as they transition out of foster care is an investment in the future of our communities,” said Vice Chairman Thomas Galvin, who represents District 2 on the Board of Supervisors. “Workforce training provides them with important, economically viable skills, and the opportunity to build a stable, successful life.”
Maricopa County will provide funding to EVIT for furniture and appliances, transportation items to allow greater ease of accessing the 65+ acre property and transporting youth to appointments and trainings, and recreational courts and equipment to provide youth with opportunities for physical activities.
“The generous support from Maricopa County is more than a financial gift,” said EVIT Superintendent Dr. Chad Wilson. “It provides students with additional resources and support needed to step confidently into adulthood and onto a pathway towards independence and prosperity. We are deeply grateful for this investment into these students’ futures.”
HopeTech is the first program of its kind in Arizona, combining housing and support services for foster youth with career training at a Career Technical Education District (CTED) campus. Officials are hopeful that this program can serve as a model to be replicated in other CTEDs across the state and technical schools nationwide.
The improvements are being funded with Maricopa County Community Solutions Funding allocated by Vice Chairman Galvin through December 31, 2024. The Board’s Community Solutions Funding is designed to help advance Maricopa County’s strategic goals and provide clear public benefits for Maricopa County residents.
About Maricopa County Human Services
The Maricopa County Human Services Department (HSD) builds resiliency in the community and promotes the well-being of County residents experiencing adversity through a variety of programs and services to help people and families thrive. These opportunities include early childhood education, housing, homeownership, independent living services for seniors and adults with disabilities, career development for job seekers with barriers to employment, crisis rental, and utility assistance, and support for people experiencing homelessness. HSD is committed to delivering innovative, equitable, inclusive, and comprehensive services in a collaborative approach that preserves dignity, promotes respect, and facilitates social and economic mobility. Learn more about the financial, educational, and support resources available to Maricopa County residents at Maricopa.gov/HSD.
About East Valley Institute of Technology
EVIT is a public trade school providing 50 career training programs to nearly 8,000 East Valley high school students and Phoenix-area adults at two central campuses in Mesa. In May 2024, over 2,600 students completed EVIT central campus programs, earning thousands of professional certifications and licenses. In addition to its certificate programs, EVIT began offering associate degree programs in surgical technology and nursing in 2024 and received a $6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to create a statewide hub for registered apprenticeships for high school and adult students. In May surveys, 92% of students said they would recommend EVIT to a friend, and 92% of parents said they would recommend EVIT to other families. For more information, visit www.evit.edu.
