Empowering Futures

In fall 2025, Charting Careers launched the Empowering Futures program to support youth in foster care and resource families throughout the State of Maryland.

Empowering Futures’ mission is to equip and empower young people in foster care — and those who support them — with access to essential resources, life skills training, mentorship opportunities, and pathways to lifelong success.

Created in response to the unique challenges and transitions that youth in foster care experience, Empowering Futures builds on Charting Career’s whole-person, relationship-centered model.  The initiative ensures that every participant has consistent support, practical tools, and a caring community walking alongside beside them through each stage of their journey.

Our dedicated team is committed to providing:

Access to Resources

We connect youth, families, and caseworkers with vital community resources such as mental health care, educational and vocational support, life skills training, financial literacy, and college and career preparation.

Family Support

As a resource parent you'll receive personalized guidance and encouragement for you and your family. You’ll be invited to participate in family programs and events at Charting Careers, collaborate with our professional team, and have access to continuous support.

Collaboration

We work alongside all partners and organizations supporting youth in foster care to help identify resources and deliver focused, practical assistance and support

Staffing

Oversight of the project is led by Dr. Elaine Reed, DSW, LMSW, a licensed social worker with over 30 years of experience in youth focused programs.

Support is provided by Charting Careers staff and MSW interns from local universities.

Contact Information

Contact our team at 410-207-0684 or email us at elaine@chartingcareers.org and let us know how we can be of assistance.

The Resource Room

The Resource Room, a component of Empowering Futures, provides a welcoming, virtual space for foster parents, resource parents, and kinship caregivers to connect, share, and access helpful supports. Held on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month from 1–2 PM, this drop-in gathering offers peer encouragement, open conversation, and practical resources in a safe, judgment-free environment. Whether you are seeking guidance, community, or simply a space to be heard, The Resource Room is here to walk alongside you.