Aaraya is a proud social worker and graduate of Western Carolina University. However, as a youth who experienced foster care, Aaraya’s journey was anything but easy. She endured hardships and struggles faced by many young people navigating the child welfare system.

Speaking to a group of young adults in Youth Villages Georgia’s LifeSet program, Atlanta-area Realtor Meka Wilson tossed out little bags of M&Ms to each youth that participated in the discussion.

Your brain is amazing. It controls everything you think, feel and do. It tells you when you are hungry, tired, frustrated, sad or happy. It helps you do math.

Child neglect — a series of events where the caregiver does not meet a child’s basic needs — is a pervasive issue that affects millions of children across various demographics and communities.

Extreme weather events like tornadoes, hurricanes or wildfires can often leave people with feelings of uncertainty and fear. Children can be deeply affected by these experiences.

Shavonda’s daughter, Amiyah, had been in and out of residential facilities since she was 13 years old. Amiyah faced serious challenges like running away and getting into unsafe situations that eventually led to involvement with the juvenile justice system

For many families, balancing excessive stress and maintaining a stable home environment for children may require extra support. Intercept, a program of Youth Villages.

The family of Robshekaneciona Alegend Jones and representatives from Youth Villages, along with their legal representatives, met to discuss the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Ms. Jones. The conference was productive. An agreement was reached to fully resolve any disputes between the parties.

May is National Foster Care Awareness Month—a time to recognize the resilience of children and youth in the foster care system and the individuals who support them. At Youth Villages, we understand the unique challenges these young people face.

At 18 years old, Jaylen has already faced a steep climb in life compared to her peers. Without support, many young people find the path to adulthood incredibly difficult. But rather than letting obstacles overload her, Jaylen is using her experiences to build a better future and inspire others.