Growing up, Jaiden’s life was marked by chaos and uncertainty. At 17, an abuse and neglect report was filed on her mother after years in a volatile and abusive household. As one of eight children, Jaiden had to take on adult responsibilities far too early.

“I had to do everything on my own,” she shared. “It was really hard, and I felt alone most of the time.”

When the Youth Villages LifeSet program entered the picture, things began to shift. LifeSet is a community-based program that helps young people achieve independence and success in adulthood. With the support of her specialist, Jaiden learned healthy coping and grounding techniques that helped her process years of instability.

“They showed me I wasn’t alone,” she said. “For the first time, I had someone who really cared and wanted to help me get to a better place.”

Her specialist supported her with everything from applying to college and getting her learner’s permit to navigating complex family dynamics. Through the ups and downs, Jaiden found consistency, encouragement and hope.

“My specialist was so caring and empathetic,” she said. “They helped me see my own potential.”

Jaiden eventually transitioned into Youth Villages Scholars, an initiative designed to help young adults who demonstrate commitment to achieving their educational, vocational or technical skill goals.

The move marked a new chapter in her journey toward independence. She learned how to budget, manage deadlines, and advocate for herself.

Youth Villages and LifeSet were there for her, even during her darkest days. She was hospitalized for mental health concerns that eventually led to medical leave from school. Jaiden says the support she received from her specialist during this time was especially encouraging.

“I didn’t have family to turn to, so my specialist felt like my village,” she said. “It made me feel less alone.”

Originally planning to study electrical engineering, Jaiden was inspired by her specialist to pursue psychology instead. She now has dreams of working for Youth Villages one day to help youth like her. Though her path hasn’t been without challenges, Jaiden has continued to persevere with support from her Youth Villages team.

Now 20, Jaiden is proud of how far she’s come.

“Youth Villages really helped me get into a good place,” she said. “I’ve learned how to take care of myself, set goals and keep moving forward. I’m more independent than I ever thought I could be.”

Jaiden’s story is proof that with the right support and belief in your potential, it’s possible to break the cycle, build confidence and create a future filled with possibility.

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