Community fights to bring back Rising Stars foster program

A program that supports the valley’s foster youth in Imperial County was unexpectedly cut.

Imperial Valley Regional Occupational Program (IVROP), said a lack of funding was the only explanation given as to why their Rising Stars program was terminated.

Program leaders are not giving up.

IVROP leaders and parents are asking the County Board of Supervisors to lend a hand and help bring the Rising Stars program back.

IVROP said the valley’s foster youth is a population that is underserved.

“There’s about 500-600 kids in the foster system alone in the Imperial County, it is a very big number and unfortunately, it is increasing more every single every day,” said Aurora Suarez, Rising Stars leader.

Rising Stars has been able to reach and mentor at least 200 foster youth in the valley.

Suarez said these youth who rely on Rising Stars for support have now lost their safety net.

The program also supports youth in the valley who have experienced traumatic events.

Janet Pina said the program’s leaders have been vital pillars for her children since the program got its start, two years ago.

“Yes, we cried because it’s very difficult. To see the circumstances my kids have had to go through, and it’s not just my kids that rely on the program. There are many kids who have gone through difficult situations and one therapy session at an office or a clinic is not enough,” said Janet Pina, parent.

“We might not be blood, but they see us in that sense because they see that genuine care that is out there for them,” said Suarez.

The program was funded by the Imperial County Department of Social Services.

Suarez saId the program’s contract was not renewed due to budget constraints within Social Services.

At yesterday’s Imperial County Board of Supervisors meeting, District 3 Supervisor Michael Kelley said the county would connect with Social Services and look into potential options for the program.