At a local festival, a group of young adults and myself chose to sleep outside the whole weekend to demonstrate to the community how homeless youth have to live. We were luckier than most unaccompanied youth and were able to sleep under a canopy. The canopy was mainly used to keep a sandwich board we made dry that asked 'Where did you sleep last night?' This really opened the eyes of those who wanted to look the other direction and gained support for Ryan's House for Youth.
Ryan's House for Youth serves homeless and at-risk youth. They serve this often forgotten population by providing services such as assistance filling out important forms that allow them access to funding to continue their education and access to health insurance. They provide case management and even mediate with families to keep the student in their home (if safe or possible.) They help with counseling, employment, and give these youth the courage and strength to overcome obstacles and succeed. Their graduation rate is outstanding!
They have had 21 youth in host homes, 15 have graduated and the other 6 had already graduated high school and are pursuing college or trade schools. Last year alone, 7 students graduated high school and 1 was even a Valedictorian!
For more information please visit www.ryanshouseforyouth.org
Review from #MyGivingStory