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NYC foster teens celebrate graduation and dance group performs for mayor
NEW YORK (PIX11) – From a celebration of foster teens who have defied the odds and are now getting support and thriving, to a youth dance group that had the chance to perform for the mayor, PIX11's Monica Morales has the updates.
It was a special celebration for some incredible graduates at Hunter College School of Social Work. More than 100 young people who beat the odds in a big way got special certificates.
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It's thanks to the city and several non-profits who helped make it happen.
Damon Dunbar,17, from the Bronx, says his certificate proving he completed high school means the world to him.
It's been a rough road to get here for Dunbar. In foster care since last year, city officials say Dunbar is not letting his circumstances define his future.
With a positive mindset, Dunbar is now on his way to the Borough of Manhattan Community College to study business.
Ina Mendez, the Deputy Commissioner at the Administration for Children's Services. She says it's important to celebrate this milestone because it represents a victory over struggles and now success.
Mendez says the city is now proud to invest in these students on their exciting journeys to college, thanks to ACS in partnership with NYC Public Schools, the Center for Fair Futures, and the nonprofit called NY Foundling.
Each teen takes the stage with determination to succeed despite obstacles. With support from the college choice program and Fair Futures, each young adult will now receive a stipend to cover housing and tuition costs.
A game changer.
There's an exciting update about one of our favorite Bronx dance groups.
Milteri Tucker Concepcion, the founder and director of the Bombazo Dance Company, says her children had the performance of a lifetime.
They performed for Mayor Eric Adams at Gracie Mansion during the Puerto Rican Heritage celebration.
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