Living the American Dream: from Foster Care to citizenship

When Erson Lazare moved to the United States from Haiti at just 12-years-old, he found himself in a tough situation.

Now, with CASA's help, he is living out his dreams!

Adversity.

"every child has potential."

The american dream looks a lot different for everyone.

For purdue fort wayne freshman erson lazare, it's everything he's ever wanted.

"i feel complete, i feel like my life has a purpose now.

I really feel like i'm here for a reason so i may as well use it for a reason and do better for this county and do my best."

It hasn't always been easy for the new american citizen.when lazare moved to the united states from haiti at just 12 years old, he found himself in a tough situation.

"the day i got into foster care, i kept moving from home to home.

I kept switching to different schools.

One time when the detective was working my case, he found out i made all a's in school he was like "he's a good kid, i'll take him home.

I was mind blown that he wanted to take care of me."

The straight- a student sings a different song now and is so grateful for the casa organization.

For 30 years, the allen county court appointed advocates association have helped children who were neglected and abused while in foster care.

Director, nancy springer says there are still hundreds of kids who need a loving volunteer in their life.

"we are looking for people in our community that really have a heart for kids and have a little time to spend.

It takes about 3-7 hours per week.

Our volunteers are really committed to making life better for kids in allen county."

Volunteer michael howell says working with these children is one of the best things he's ever done.

Howell says you don't need to be a superhero to make an impact, you just need to be there.

"making a difference in one kids like...i know it's cliche like the old poem about throwing the starfish back in the sea.

It's like "you can't get them all.but i got that one!"in fort wayne, i'm brianna dahlquist.

Fox 55 news.