By Libby Hopkins
Everybody deserves someone who makes him or her look forward to tomorrow. That’s why Cindy Tilley started her non-profit Forgotten Angels, which helps children in the community who have aged out of foster care or come from rough backgrounds.
“I grew up in foster care from fourth grade until I was 17,” said Tilley. “I fully understand what it’s like to not have any direction and support from anyone.”
Tilley knows how easy it is for teens and young adults to lose their way in the world with no one to guide them down the right path in life.
Forgotten Angels is a non-profit dedicated to empowering and educating struggling youth, to become self-sufficient as well as productive members of our society. The organization’s goal is to change the lives of youth and they achieve this goal by focusing on one youth at a time.
“I want to give these special individuals a place to feel like they belong and help them find their way,” Tilley said. “Whether it’s helping them further their education, or get them prepared for school or work by getting them a haircut, new clothes or updating a resume, this foundation will do it for them.”
Tilley wants to help, guide and inspire the youth who are aging out of the foster care system or who come from difficult backgrounds.
“I hope to give them a sense of belonging,” Tilley said. “As adults, we know that life’s basics should not be taken for granted. When a need is identified, the foundation will do its best to lend a helping hand.”
Tilley is looking to partner with other local foster homes, like A Kid’s Place or Joshua House, to guide youth before they make bad choices.
“I want to help surrounding schools with any youth who can’t afford supplies or simple things like going to prom,” Tilley said. “I also hope to have computers donated to help children be able to further their education.”
Forgotten Angels has two upcoming fundraisers. The first one will be on Thursday, December 3 at the California Pizza Kitchen at Westfield Town Center in Brandon. If you mention you’re dining to support Forgotten Angels, the restaurant will donate 20 percent of the check to the foundation. The second fundraiser will be held at Keel and Curley in Plant City on Saturday, December 12 from 6–11 p.m. Tickets cost $20 and food is included in the ticket price.
To learn more about Forgotten Angels, visit www.forgottenangelsfl.org or contact Tilley at 728-0461.
