My Nonprofit Reviews

christineayers
Review for Grateful Gatherings, Oakland, CA, USA
Grateful Gatherings does an amazing job of making immediate, meaningful changes in the lives of families coming out of homelessness. The families they serve have already worked so hard to secure housing but often have nothing left to furnish their homes with basic necessities to make their space their home. They are often sleeping on the floor because they can't afford beds, don't have furniture to sit on or cookware to make a meal. Grateful Gatherings meets with every client to understand what they need and then engages their volunteer base to make change happen. In the course of one day these clients' living spaces are transformed into homes where their families can take refuge, come together for a meal, get a good nights sleep before work or school, and begin to thrive. Grateful Gatherings has put the motto of serving thy neighbor into action in a very real way. https://gratefulgatherings.org
Review for Youth Homes , Concord, CA, USA
Since my introduction to Youth Homes 10+ years ago, I've met volunteers and staff that are involved for solely one reason - to help youth who are in need of support because of difficult life circumstances. Youth Homes shows these kids they are worthy, cared for and valued, all while helping them develop the life skills they need to not only survive but thrive. I simply can't list all the programs here. From enrichment opportunities in activities that build confidence, job skill development by working at our thrift store to simply making sure these kids get to school and are engaged in learning to secure their future, these youth are gaining critical life skills while supported and cared for by a trauma-informed team of professionals and volunteers. Our thrift store provides critical clothing and other items for free to our youth, while giving them the opportunity to shop and make selections for themselves. Having this choice to select items that work for them and express who they are is so empowering for these kids who have a lot happen where they've had little to no choice. Youth Homes is truly making a difference in the lives of youth, redirecting them to a future that is bright and filled with opportunity. And this impact is not only felt by the youth themselves but also the people they engage with in their lives. Keep up the amazing work Youth Homes!