By investing in their lives, Forward Steps supports under-resourced youth and young adults, including current and former foster youth, so they can reach their full potential as independent, healthy and contributing members of their communities. The organization works to advance equitable access along the education and workforce development talent pipeline in Colorado through navigation and wrap around supports, and customized career and postsecondary readiness programming.

In 2021, Forward Steps merged with the Realizing Aptitudes Foundation. The nonprofit organizations shared the same founder and commitment to supporting youth. They are empowered to develop and pursue a vision of what’s possible for their futures.

Through both programs, FS promotes a multiple pathway model in its career development work focused on the transition from high school to postsecondary enrollment and attainment, and workforce readiness and entry. The coaches and mentors in both programs employ a multicultural competent, targeted 1:1 and small group approach, crucial to building rapport and engaging students who previously thought that postsecondary education or training, and a fulfilling career were not an option for them.