Connected by 25 TAMPA (WUSF) - Connected by 25 is a privately funded program in Hillsborough county. It helps dozens of teens who are too old for foster care with finances, jobs, internships and other needs.

During a brunch in Tampa, Florida Governor Jeb Bush thanked the Eckerd Family Foundation for their 1.3 million dollar contribution to the program. He also called on business leaders and others in the community to help where they can.

BUSH: "We should never underestimate the power of one - everybody can play a role everybody can open up a door for somebody."

Bush calls the program a model for the
state and the nation.

20 year old Sade Smith participates in C by 25 and was pleased that Bush addressed the group.

SMITH: "Just having him here really let's me know how important it is."

Joe Clark with the Eckerd Family Foundation says Connected by 25 is one of three pilot programs of this type in the nation.
Valerie Ingram WUSF 89.7 News © Copyright 2010, WUSF