Like many who have experienced the child welfare system, Ethan’s path was filled with uncertainty and obstacles. His journey began in his high school.

Naomi’s story with Youth Villages started with the LifeSet program, but her journey to get there was anything but easy. She entered foster care at 4 years old and was adopted at 9.

When mentoring is mentioned, thoughts quickly go to being a friend or a buddy for a child or youth. Mentoring also conjures up images of playing board games, throwing a football or softball, going out to eat or doing arts and crafts.

Every year in the United States, only half of the number of children who enter the child welfare system are reunified with family. The goal of foster care is for families to be reunited after the necessary steps have been taken to ensure the well-being of the household.

Meet Ruby, a student at a local community college in Wilmington, North Carolina. She recently took a trip to Mexico to spend time with family, and she has plans to complete her bachelor’s degree in architecture at University of North Carolina-Charlotte after graduation.

The Holiday Heroes campaign has helped children and families in West Tennessee for nearly 20 years by connecting corporate and community volunteers to fulfill the holiday wish lists of local youth.

Studies show young people who have a positive adult figure in their life are less likely to drop out of school, have fewer run-ins with law enforcement and build better relationships with their biological family. This remains true for those entering college and young adulthood.

As we reflect on this holiday season, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible outpouring of support from our community during our Holiday Heroes campaign.

For Timothy Richmond, the best thing about being a Youth Villages mentor is learning something new from each young person he takes under his wing.

As many of us think through New Year’s resolutions, we’re seeking habits that bring value to our lives and make us the best, most healthy versions of ourselves. This year, instead of focusing on cutting back or giving things up, why not create resolutions that add joy, connection and adventure to your family’s life?