I am currently a Clinical Social Work intern at Star-Vista and have noted the incredible assistance and support that this agency is providing individuals in San Mateo County. In particular, the Daybreak program has provided transitional age youth with a robust program that sets them up for a healthy, happy, and safe adulthood through weekly individual counseling sessions, group therapy, transitional housing, rapid rehousing, and case management support that connects them to community resources. The Daybreak team is equipped with diverse and trauma-informed case managers, residential counselors, and clinicians that work collaboratively to foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity in which is needed to allow our young folks to thrive and succeed. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to be able to continue my learning in an environment dedicated to fulfilling Star-Vista’s mission statement to deliver high-impact services through counseling, skill development, and crisis prevention to help these transitional age youth through current life's challenges
As a former board member and CEO and now on a commission that funds StarVista, I continue to see the impact that StarVista makes in San Mateo County. All of their programs are addressing important needs in the community, from helping children who have witnessed domestic violence or in the need of mental health services to supporting families who need assistance with meeting today's challenges. The staff is well qualified and passionate in providing the many services. Everyone I come in contact with in our community respects the work StarVista does.
This is a wonderful organization that provides vital services to thousands of children, youth and adults each year. I heard about YFES through a neighbor and a former associate, and was amazed to learn that it had the breadth of programs that it offers. I became involved first as a donor and then as a board member. Board membership has given me exposure to many staff members, who are the great strength of the organization. YFES leadership has succeeded in attracting the “best and the brightest” among nonprofit social service employees as well as the staff that supports them in development, finance and operations.
I have been involved with YFES for several years now and continue to be impressed with the organization and the many ways it serves the community in San Mateo County. Through its many programs, YFES meets important needs such as helping families in crisis, providing education & support to young people, and giving those with substance abuse problems a much-needed second chance. With strong leadership at the helm and backed by a committed staff, YFES will continue to thrive.
YFES is a fantastic organization that provides the San Mateo county community a variety of valuable youth and family programs such as Children's Place, Archway, and Healthy Homes. I have heard testimonials from some of the children and young adults who have received assistance from YFES programs, and their lives have truly been changed for the better. In full disclosure, I have served on the organization's Corporate Advisory Council for several years, so of course I'm biased! The new CEO, Michael Garb, brings a great deal of energy to his role and along with his team position the organization for great strides in the coming years.