OPTIMIST YOUTH HOMES AND FAMILY SERVICES

Optimist Youth Homes and Family Services (“OYHFS”) is one of Los Angeles’ oldest foster-care focused nonprofit organizations, standing beside vulnerable youth and families since 1906. OYHFS strives to create pathways to stability, belonging, and brighter futures for the over 1800 youth and families served across Los Angeles County by providing services such as: transition housing, preventative services, foster care and adoption, mental health services, CSEC advocacy, and career readiness at the LOLA Clubhouse. Junior League of Los Angeles has hosted events for OYHFS clients such as “Finding Your Passion”, a cooking workshop, Galentine’s Day, Fall Festival, and has assembled welcome kits and backpacks. JLLA also created a dedicated “Self Care Space” for clients at the Woodland Hills site.

HAPPY TRAILS

Happy Trails provides children ages 7-18 with enriching outdoor adventures, invaluable mentorships, and opportunities to develop leadership skills and prepare for life after foster care. The programs are centered on fostering continuity and a sense of belonging for children to combat the challenges of foster care. Junior League supports the ongoing tutoring program for youth and plans regular events for the whole family to enjoy around having healthy and active lifestyles.

HARVEST HOME

Harvest Home is a residential program that serves homeless pregnant women and their babies. All women enter the program while they are pregnant, and stay on average between 3 and 6 months after the birth of their child. They offer a nurturing, structured program aimed at helping each woman make changes in her life in order to attain independence and stability. The Harvest Home Committee coordinates programming to provide encouragement and soft skills training for the pregnant and new mothers. Past events included hosting a baby shower for the residents, a yoga/meditation session, and hosting pot luck dinners.