Every month, Youth Villages Oregon hosts a Peer-to-Peer gathering for participants in LifeSet, an evidence-informed program helping youth aging out of foster care learn skills to navigate adulthood, and the Independent Living Program for transition-age youth.

These gatherings range from cooking classes, resume building and mock interviews, to financial literacy sessions which provide critical life skills for those who are impacted by foster care.

Young adults are also celebrated for special occasions like graduation and holidays and staff even make sure they get to enjoy fun experiences such as kayaking and rock climbing.

But it’s more than just skill building.

Young people impacted by foster care could be isolated due to multiple placements and disrupting factors. “I’ve connected with multiple youth who are going through the same process as me and I felt more comfortable knowing I’m not alone,” one LifeSet participant said.

Peer-to-Peers represent an opportunity for youth to connect with one another, work on skills related to networking and social connection, and establish a peer support group.

In May, Youth Villages Oregon established a partnership with Providence Milwaukie Teaching Kitchen for a cooking class and lesson on healthy eating habits. Independent Living Program Specialist Haley Duvall regularly receives requests from youth for more support and skill building related to cooking. Something as simple as meal prepping could be a critical life skill for a young adult. A gracious donor also provided goodie bags full of basic spices, equipment and Tupperware containers for participants to stock their kitchens.

Additionally, in June, Youth Villages Oregon celebrated youth who graduated from high school, trade school and college. One of the college graduates recognized was Ethan, who is now on staff at Youth Villages.

How to get involved in Oregon

We are always looking for new experiences and skills for LifeSet and Independent Living Program participants. If you are interested in sponsoring a Peer-to-Peer event, instructing a session or want to know how you can give, please contact Alexis Aviles.

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