Building community relationships

Support for foster and systems-impacted youth

Antelope Valley

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

Childhood trauma such as exposure to violence, neglect, and abuse can have long lasting and a significant impact on an individual's emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Trauma can increase the risk of substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Without the intervention and the support of community members that have experienced and can relate to their situation the cycle of abuse, violence, and substance abuse continues into adulthood, thus affecting education, relationships, quality of life, and employment in adulthood. Building community relationships, mentoring, the introduction and creation of new programs and environments can change the confidence and outlook of an individual dealing with trauma.

The Empowerment program is a comprehensive initiative designed to address the critical needs of women and children victims of domestic violence, at-risk youth, and economically challenged and underprivileged individuals. Our program will provide vital support through tailored services such as mentoring, vocational job training, prevention strategies, all aimed at promoting self-sufficiency, emotional healing, and positive futures. By focusing on vulnerable populations, particularly women, children, teens, and young adults we strive to empower them to break cycles of abuse, violence, and poverty. Our mission is to foster resilience and growth in the lives of the most vulnerable members of society by providing comprehensive resources and mentorship programs. It is through these programs we can provide resources and peer support for women and children victims of domestic violence through partnerships at the county and state resource level. Offering vocational job training and placement to young adults 18-26 to help create a sustainable pipeline of job-ready individuals who can successfully enter the workforce or continue their education. Creating community relationships with veteran organizations to mentor youth will provide alternative options for career advancement and the opportunity for growth in serving their country. These programs will help reduce the recidivism rate among youth by 20% through proactive prevention strategies.

Los Angeles County will benefit as whole by expanding the Empowering Program: Crime Prevention, programs offer an alternative to crime, gang involvement, and substance abuse, providing youth with purpose, and guidance. Education and Employment, skill-building, tutoring, and mentoring improve career readiness reducing long term unemployment and poverty. Community Engagement when youth feel supported they are more likely to give back, volunteer, and stay rooted in the community. Supporting Veterans: veterans bring discipline, leadership and experience. With the right support they are exceptional mentors and civic leaders. Long Term Community benefits are stronger social bonds: inclusive programs reduces stigma and creates a sense of compassion. Economic Growth: as more people are educated and employed local communities thrive. Creating community programs for underprivileged and previous incarcerated provides second chances reducing recidivism rates, and helps create safer communities.