Seen, Heard, & Supported: Professional Development Program Expansion for Systems-Impacted Youth in Antelope Valley

Support for foster and systems-impacted youth

Antelope Valley

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

Transition-age youth (TAY) with foster care or justice involvement face some of the most persistent barriers to economic mobility in Los Angeles County. Only 58% of foster youth graduate from high school, fewer than 10% enroll in college, and less than 3% complete a degree. By age 26, over half will have experienced homelessness, and one in three will have been incarcerated.

In the Antelope Valley, where Seen&Heard is expanding, these disparities are even more severe. The region has one of California’s highest rates of child welfare involvement, yet few accessible, youth-centered programs. Inaccessible transportation is a major barrier: many youth miss opportunities simply because they cannot get there. With limited transit options and long travel distances, young people are cut off from jobs, education, and support. Seen&Heard is addressing this gap with a model that includes dedicated transportation, eliminating one of the most persistent barriers to engagement.

Seen&Heard’s expansion into the Antelope Valley builds on a proven program model that helps system-impacted youth transition from surviving to thriving. This trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate initiative equips youth with the behavioral, social-emotional, and professional skills they need to succeed in work and life.

Over 18 weeks, participants practice communication, accountability, and emotional regulation through structured activities, coaching, and real-world scenarios. The program also includes public speaking, one-on-one goal setting, and support for employment readiness. Participants remain connected after graduation through alumni roles like mentorship and facilitation, reinforcing peer support and long-term engagement.

However, in the Antelope Valley, lack of reliable transportation is a major barrier to access. Many youth live far from service hubs with few public transit options. LA2050 funding will directly support the purchase of a program van and related vehicle expenses. This solution is essential to ensuring youth can reliably access programming and unlock the opportunities this expansion was designed to provide.

When our work is successful, more system-impacted youth in Los Angeles County will enter adulthood with confidence, self-awareness, and the tools to thrive in work and life. Youth who might have otherwise disengaged will show up to jobs, manage challenges, and build stability. Alumni will return as mentors, helping peers navigate what they have overcome. Support networks will grow stronger, especially in under-resourced regions like the Antelope Valley.

A dedicated vehicle will make this expansion sustainable by eliminating one of the most persistent barriers: transportation. Reliable access will ensure youth can attend programming, connect with partners, and participate fully in every opportunity.

Ultimately, success means a Los Angeles where all young people, regardless of background or geography, are seen, heard, and supported as they transition into adulthood with real opportunities, real skills, and real people walking alongside them.