The Blue Ribbon Project

The Blue Ribbon Project is a 100% volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization based in Annapolis, Maryland. We are committed to both the prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect and as a support network for survivors of Child Abuse, Foster Care, and Child Sexual Assault.

We offer several programs that directly serve abused and neglected children, raise public awareness about child abuse, and programs serving adult survivors of child abuse.

Please take a moment to "Like" our page and join us in the prevention of child abuse and support of adult survivors.

The Blue Ribbon Project was founded by Taylor Pyles, a "victim" of child abuse who entered the foster care system at a very early age. Taylor eventually "aged out" of the system and was left to fend for himself. Taylor became a "survivor" and not only survived but thrived.

In support of child victims of Child Abuse and adult Survivors of Child Abuse, The Blue Ribbon Project offers a variety of programs that directly impact the community. These programs include:

Aging Up...Not Out: This program supports older foster youth as they are preparing for life on their own and will be leaving the foster care system. This program offers a variety of life skills topics that include such things as managing finances, purchasing a vehicle, finding housing, applying for and interviewing for employment, as well as other life skills. These courses are free to foster youth aged 14 and above. Seating is limited and registration is required for each program.

Backpacks of Love: This program supports victims of child abuse and neglect the moment they are being removed from a dangerous environment. Oftentimes, the child is lacking the very basic essentials such as a toothbrush/toothpaste, a change of clothes, etc. The moment a child is removed, The Blue Ribbon Project is notified by Department of Social Services, the Police, or the foster parent receiving the child. A backpack containing those essentials is delivered directly to the child. This gets them through the first few days of care.

Foster Friends: The Foster Friends Program helps children in care explore extra curricular activities and provides opportunities not normally afforded to them. If a foster child wishes to participate in programs such as soccer, Taekwondo, play a music instrument, take ballet, or other activities, The Blue Ribbon Project will sponsor the child and help enroll and pay for the child to participate.

Speak Up...Speak Out: One of the best ways to fight child abuse is the prevention of abuse and neglect. The Blue Ribbon Project has several speakers from a variety of backgrounds to discuss the topic of child abuse. From law enforcement investigators that speak about recognition of abuse to adult survivors of abuse who share their stories.

JobConnect: This program helps connect foster youth with prospective employers by assisting with employment searches, job applications, and working with both the youth and the employer. It helps older foster youth get a fresh start in the job market to master the important skills needed in life.