Indianapolis Colts hosts graduation party for students in foster care

Graduation is a momentous occasion, marking years of perseverance and dedication. However, for those who lack familial support during this milestone, it can be particularly challenging.

The Indianapolis Colts, along with Cargo Services and Meijer, aimed to bridge this gap by honoring foster care high school graduates.

“I’m here today because of my strong determination to achieve this milestone. I wanted to be the first in four generations of my family to graduate high school,” shared Patrick Collier, a Colts Foster Care graduate who spent much of his life navigating the foster care system. “It hasn’t been easy, and I’ve faced numerous challenges,” he added.

At just 13 years old, Collier met Kareem Hines through New Boy, an organization that provided crucial support during difficult times. “He’s been like a father figure to me. I never had a father growing up, and while I hoped my older brother could fill that role, life had other plans,” Collier reflected. Nominated by his caseworker and voted into the Colts foster care graduate class by his peers, Collier’s journey intersected with General Manager Chris Ballard and his wife Kristin.

The Ballards initiated this foster care graduation program in 2016 with four graduates, which has now grown to an average of over 20 graduates annually, with a substantial waiting list.

“Despite the challenges they’ve faced, these graduates have achieved something significant,” noted Kristin Ballard. Foster parents since 2010, the Ballards have adopted two of their foster children. “These kids were born into circumstances beyond their control. What matters now is their accomplishment,” Chris Ballard emphasized.

Steve Fugate, Owner of Cargo Services, highlighted the importance of community support, stating, “I hope these kids realize they are not alone.”

Collier expressed his future aspirations, “That’s why I’m committed to my nonprofit work and mentoring. I pushed to graduate early, and now I’m aiming for college, particularly Central State University, an HBCU.”

Although Collier plans to take a gap year for personal growth, his determination to pursue higher education remains steadfast.