Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: ProKids
Legal Name (if Different): ProKids
Also Known As: ProKids
Mailing Address: 222 West 7th Street
City: Cincinnati
State: OH
Postal Code: 45202
Main Phone: 5132812000
Main Fax: N/A
Organization Website: www.prokids.org
Employer ID Number: 31-1020021
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/25/2026
Requested Amount: 5,000

Project Title: ProKids Launch Program: Best Interest Advocacy for Youth 14+ in the Hamilton County, Ohio Child Protection System
Project Description:

According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Ohio has the third‑largest population of youth ages 14–21 in foster care, behind only California and Texas.

The University of Cincinnati’s Economic Center estimates that young people aging out of foster care in Hamilton County, Ohio cost residents $17.7 million each year due to increased rates of incarceration, unemployment, homelessness, mental health challenges, early parenthood, and reduced lifetime earnings. On average, each young person who ages out generates roughly $300,000 in long‑term social costs. This is where Launch comes in.

Launch is a best interest advocacy program that addresses the needs of youth 14+ who are at risk of aging out of foster care without a permanent home – focusing on high school graduation, planning for adulthood, and self-sufficiency. Advocacy is provided through case management, with each young person assigned a CASA Manager, CASA Volunteer, and Attorney. The CASA Manager is an expert in the child protection system (assessments, services, etc.), the CASA Volunteer becomes the expert about the individual child and their needs, and the attorney is an expert in child protection law.

The goal of Launch is to help young people find stable, supportive homes rather than aging out of care. For those who do age out, Launch equips them with the knowledge, resources, and relationships needed to build a strong support system. Launch is also focused on high school graduation/GED attainment, employment, post‑secondary education, essential life skills, and financial management.
At the center of this work is the CASA Volunteer, often the most consistent adult in a young person’s life. Volunteers help youth identify needs, access services, and develop a comprehensive transition plan. They promote self‑advocacy, self‑sufficiency, and active participation in every step toward adulthood, supporting and preparing youth as they move toward independence.

Total Project Budget: $348,763

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation: $50,000 – Committed The Sutphin Family Foundation: $35,000 – Potential The P&G Fund: $25,000 – Potential The Foundation Office at Fifth Third Bank $25,000 – Potential The Duke Energy Foundation: $2,500 – Potential

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Hamilton County, Ohio
Age Group To Be Served: 14 – 21 years old youth in the foster care system

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Sarah
Contact Last Name: Breedlove
Contact Title: Foundation Director
Contact Phone: 5134874951
Contact Email: sbreedlove@prokids.org