The 2009 Pal Graduation honoring high school graduates leaving CPS custody was a great success. This year, BEAR had the opportunity to host the celebration at the Reliant Center, which provided youth with gifts, dinner, an ice cream bar, and a DJ. We are very grateful to our Master of Ceremonies, Jerome Gray, and our Keynote Speaker, Tony Speller, Senior VP, Comcast for their participation.

     The individuals who were honored not only graduated from high school or obtained their GED, but also participated and completed the Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) program. Here, they learned how to live independently and become productive members of society, as they are no longer eligible for services from Children Protective Services (CPS). Most of these young adults will either continue their studies or join the workforce and live on their own. Therefore, many of the gifts requested were everyday items, such as bedding, microwaves, towels, dishes, and irons. However, donors were more than happy to also provide MP3 players, digital cameras, and even a laptop.

     BEAR would like to thank all the volunteers and donors who helped make this graduation happen. With their efforts, the celebration was a very joyful and successful event.

Congratulations to the graduates and thank you for your support!

Click here to view the Houston Chronicle's coverage of the event.

To view photos from the event, please click here.

Please click here if you would like to make a donation to next year's PAL Graduation.