Embracing Independence Day 2026

A Day of Inspiration, Opportunity, and Possibility!

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make Bergen CASA’s annual Embracing Independence Day such a wonderful and action-packed event for our older foster youth who are preparing to transition out of the foster care system and into independent adulthood.

The day was all about encouraging our youth to think about their futures, explore opportunities, discover new possibilities, and connect with people and organizations who can help them along the way.

We were fortunate to have an incredible group of vendors and community partners who generously shared their time, expertise, and resources.

Hugo Castille brought an amazing simulator used to train individuals to operate heavy construction equipment, giving our youth a fascinating hands-on introduction to potential careers in construction.

Nate Dorka introduced our youth to the opportunities available through Servants Heart Academy in Paterson, highlighting the training and career pathways available to those interested in pursuing the skilled trades.

Dahsaan Jennings of Str8 Up challenged our youth to think seriously about the futures they envision for themselves, putting them on the spot with some important questions about their goals and aspirations.

The highlight of the morning was an incredibly thought-provoking presentation by Dr. Greg Lucas of Joy Roots LLC, who challenged our youth to seek wisdom and recognize the value of their attention. His powerful message encouraged them to consider how much of that precious resource they give to their phones and social media, rather than investing in developing relationships, strengthening their social skills, and preparing to engage confidently with others in the workplace and beyond. It was a message that resonated with all of us!

We were also delighted to welcome the Meadowlands Chamber of Commerce, along with their wonderfully tall and unmistakable mascot, Murray the Egret, who certainly made his presence felt! A special thank you to Prologis for their generous donation of soccer backpacks, balls, and other items for our youth.

We were honored to have Bergen County Executive James Tedesco join us, along with many other county dignitaries, including Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton. We are grateful to the Sheriff’s Office for its participation and continued support.

Most importantly, thank you to every individual, organization, and community partner who took time out of their busy schedules to show our youth that there are people who believe in them, care about their futures, and want to help them succeed.

It was a busy, inspiring, and truly memorable day. Because every young person deserves the opportunity to build a future filled with hope, purpose, and possibility.

#BergenCASA #EmbracingIndependence #FosteringFutures #FosterYouth #AgingOutOfFosterCare #CommunityPartnerships #YouthEmpowerment