Tristan, 20, entered DCS custody when he was 14 years old. “I got caught up in a lot of stuff I was not supposed to,” Tristan said. “I think that’s common for kids who grew up like I did. You have to do whatever it takes to get by.”
Blog Articles
Mary Ann’s Journey
It would have been easy for Mary Ann to fail. Raised in an environment of substance abuse and violence, Mary Ann began using drugs at the early age of 8.
Volunteer Spotlight – Henry Boyd
Youth Villages is grateful to have dedicated community volunteers who are invaluable resources for our staff and youth. They motivate and inspire by giving their time, knowledge and hearts to support the mission and values of our organization.
Through LifeSet and LifeSet Scholars, Zoe builds his future
Young people who turn 18 in foster care are resilient and want to become successful adults. Zoe, entered state custody at 14 years old and moved around a lot before “aging out.”
“I never really unpacked my clothing because I moved so much. I kept it in whatever bag I could find,” he says.
Youth Villages CEO, Actress Kristen Bell and TOMS Corporation Receive National Jefferson Awards for Outstanding Public Service
Youth Villages storiesMEMPHIS, Tenn. (Sept 25, 2020) – Youth Villages CEO Patrick Lawler received the National Jefferson Award for Outstanding Public Service Benefiting the Disadvantaged, joining actress Kristen Bell and TOMS Corporation in a virtual award ceremony....
Finding Independence: Chris’s Story
Every year, the Youth Villages LifeSet program helps more than 4,000 young people across the county navigate challenges as they reach adulthood. These young people are resilient and capable…
Bipartisan bill introduced to fund relief for transition-age youth
Ary and other LifeSet participants shared their COVID-19 experiences with congressional representatives to advocate for targeted relief for older foster youth during the crisis and its recovery.
Honoring Two National Board Members
We are honored to recognize two members of Youth Villages’ national board of directors, retiring from national board governance this past June.
Father weathers the storm of turmoil to grow closer to children
Juan’s responsibilities were too much. Left to care for three children after their mother left the family and discontinued visitation, he needed support.
July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
Every day, millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition. In many communities, these problems are increased by less access to care, cultural stigma and lower quality care. Anyone can experience the challenges of mental illness regardless of their background. But, one’s cultural background or identity can make access to mental health treatment much more difficult. July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, and Youth Villages Clinical Consultant Brittany Jones discusses the unique challenges facing minority groups when it comes to their mental health.