|
|
|
Greetings! 
For most foster youth, transitioning into independence can be challenging and emotional. In many cases they are unemployed and without proper guidance and support they will become homeless shortly after leaving foster care.
The Youth Homes TAY (Transition Age Youth) Labor Program was created to provide job training and employment and is one of the many services offered through our Aftercare Program. The priority of job openings (generally 10 slots) are awarded to former Youth Homes residents but is open to all Contra Costa County former foster youth.
Not only does the TAY Labor Program offer a job and a paycheck, but more importantly it provides the skills, training and resources to guide them toward independence and a successful transition into adulthood. Additional TAY services provide aftercare clients with continued mental health counseling, case management and skill building services within our Alumni Network. The Alumni Network offers peer mentorship, referrals and help with grants and goal planning.
Many of Youth Homes TAY Labor employees are currently available to perform light gardening work and single story gutter cleaning. If you or someone you know is in need of gardening service, please contact Jeremy Gaabe, Youth Homes TAY Labor Work Crew Supervisor at (925) 705-3192 or email jeremyg@youthhomes.org
|
Measuring Success
What does it mean when we say Youth Homes has a very high success rate with the kids in our care? One of the ways the foster care world measures success is how many kids served through group homes are able to leave through a "planned discharge". This means that the child's next placement is well planned in advance in order to meet their needs. This ensures they will not be expelled from a program or run away, which is often the case with difficult, traumatized youth.
 For group homes nationwide, 50% of youth run away from placements before a proper plan can be implemented with smaller community group homes averaging 35%, an even more dismal reality.
At Youth Homes, 70% of our youth leave according to a planned treatment discharge, providing strong outcomes for the kids in our care. All of these youth are also able leave with new skills and a higher level of functioning, putting them one step closer to living independently or returning to stable family situations. Ultimately this is a tribute to the fine care provided by our counselors and clinicians who work with the kids while they live in our homes. They are truly dedicated to the Youth Homes mission of serving abused and abandoned foster youth one kid at a time. |
The Benefits of Volunteering
In today's busy society, it can be hard to think about finding time to volunteer. However, the benefits of volunteering are enormous.
Volunteering can help you make new friends, reach out to the community, expand your network, learn new skills, and even advance your career. Here are some ways you can help Youth Homes.
Event Planning
Youth Homes annual gala is our largest fundraising event of the year. Fundraising is fun with this diverse fundraising committe. Make new friends while learning the basics of fundraising!
Community Work Day
Adopt one of Youth Homes four residential group homes and help with household repairs, painting, gardening or clean-up projects. This is a great way to engage corporations, small businesses and churches within the community.
Mentorship
Our program is modeled on the Big Sisters/Big Brothers concept and is designed to create one-on-one relationships between Youth Homes' residents and adult mentor volunteers. If you are intersted in learning more about becoming a mentor, please contact Sheri Mascorro (925) 323-3410 or sherim@youthhomes.org
The Youth Homes Auxiliary Thrift Store
Go shopping at this great upscale thrift store (proceeds support Youth Homes) or donate your gently used items. Visit www.youthhomesauxiliary.org today!
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact the Youth Homes office at (925) 933-2627.
|
Dear supporters,
Youth Homes is working diligently to continue providing these kid's with the best care possible. Thank you for being an important part of our efforts. It is because of you that our work is made possible.
Sincerely,
Stuart McCullough
Executive Director
stuartm@youthhomes.org
|
|
|
|
|
March News
Transition Age Youth Program
YH Measures Success
The Benefits of Volunteering
Quick Links
NEW! Annual Report
YH Programs & Services
YH Auxiliary Thrift Shop
Other Ways to Help
Mentorship
Me, a Foster Parent?
Volunteer
Help Spread the Word!
   
Write a Review or Share with a Friend!
*************************
Youth Homes would like to thank Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church
for adopting Pryor House during their annual community work day "One Sunday". From installing a new kitchen sink, patching holes, replacing old window screens to installing a brand new pantry! - we were truly humbled by your show of support.
|
|
