November 2012                                      

   

MFP's development team (fondly referred to as "devo" by the staff) is a small shop of two. Alexis and Natalie work hard to ensure that MFP is sufficiently resourced to serve the youth for years to come. With a strong commitment to MFP's mission and core values, they are responsible for organizing fundraising events, annual campaigns, membership recognition, donation drives, cultivation events, web and print marketing and grant writing. 

Alexis and Natalie are honored to carry MFP's passion for serving homeless youth into the community. Telling the stories of the struggles and triumphs of the young people is a great responsibility and joy. They'd love to meet you and learn more about why you love MFP like we do. MFP couldn't do this work without you; we invite you to share your ideas for raising support and awareness. Email us at development@myfriendsplace.org or call the office at (323) 908.0011.

Stay tuned for more MFP team highlights!

Word From the Streets

Created in MFP  Writing Workshop

In Hollywood

Anonymous 

In Hollywood, the homeless life has changed me, And now 2 years later, I'm being all I can be, with school, a job and my higher power, altogether I'm getting stronger and stronger.

I've met many friends along the way who've gotten me trouble, tribulation and pain, and when I thought my life had come to an end, back on my feet, I will not break or bend

So now as they look through the clearing of the midst they only see me along, standing with raised fist

victorious because I know the inevitable because the progress of my life has shown

I'm invincible!!! 

November is 

National HomelessYouth 

Awareness Month

 

Each year more than 1.6 million children are homeless.According to The National Center on Family Homelessness, that number is increasing. 

Along with losing their home, community, friends, and routines as well as their sense of stability and safety, many homeless youth are also victims of trauma. While trying to survive on the streets, youth are exposed to countless dangers, with an increased likelihood of substance abuse, early parenthood, impulsivity, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a vulnerability to being trafficked.

These statistics don't sit well with MFP. In a growing effort to prevent and reduce homelessness among youth, My Friend's Place is part of the Hollywood Homeless Youth Partnership (HHYP). This partnership provides information and training for staff, as well as crisis resources for homeless youth. Please click the link below to learn more and consider sharing with friends and colleagues. 

National Child Traumatic Stress Network:

http://www.nctsn.org/

Hollywood Homeless Youth Partership:

http://hhyp.org/

Scott Walker

MFP Board of Directors

Scott Walker was introduced to MFP in early 2011 at an Anniversary Dinner hosted by MFP board members. He was so impressed by what he saw on a tour that he was moved to join MFP's board soon after. 

Since then, Scott has become fully invested in MFP--serving on MFP's Development Committee, and spending countless hours helping us launch our new website. When asked about his work here, Scott said, "My satisfaction comes from the knowledge that, in some small way, my efforts support the amazing work the team delivers on a daily basis." He went on to say that, "MFP does not shrink from the challenge of addressing the needs of L.A.'s homeless youth simply because it is a difficult task. Rather, this difficulty motivates MFP to remain a much-needed safe haven for the homeless and offer hope through a variety of services: education, health services, basic needs, etc." 

Scott added, "It's an honor to serve on MFPs board, and interacting with its staff is nothing short of inspirational." We thank you, Scott, for all that you do for us; working with you is an honor!

Download a Volunteer Application 

and contact Taylor Wilkerson at (323) 908-0011 X116 or email: twilkerson@myfriendsplace.org

We'd love to have you on our team!