Alumna Rosie Perez, Former Foster Youth, Pens Autobiography

May is Foster Care Awareness Month. Like 125 students in LACC’s Guardian Scholars Program, alumna Rosie Perez is a product of the foster care system. Rosie has recently written about her childhood and early career in an autobiography, ‘Handbook for An Unpredictable Life’.

In honor of Rosie Perez’ struggle, Foster Care Awareness Month, and the 125 students on campus who are current or former foster youth, please donate to our Guardian Scholars Program. Your support provides them with individualized education, career and personal counseling, as well as financial assistance to ensure they achieve their education and career goals!

In her autobiography, Rosie refers to herself as a dented can — someone who was dealt many hard blows throughout childhood. From an early age, despite her circumstances, Rosie made the conscious decision not to allow her spirit and mind to end up dented as well.

As a biology student at LACC, Rosie lived in the neighborhoods of Watts and Crenshaw, worked two part-time jobs (while doing hair on the side) and raised her cousin’s children because her cousin was addicted to heroin. After being discovered by Spike Lee at a local club, she continued going to classes for a year until her career with Soul Train took off!

At a book signing on April 19th, Rosie graciously signed two copies for the LACC Foundation, which will be displayed in the campus library.