by Paula Fernandez On September 23, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom approved a new law that would require every private and public school, including county offices of education and charter schools, to have at least one gender-neutral bathroom on campuses on or prior to...
Youth Spotlight: Chris’s Story
At the tender age of 20, Chris found himself caught in the tumultuous whirlwind of life, juggling the pursuit of education at Santa Ana College with the relentless battle for stable housing. With his younger brother by his side, they faced the daunting task of...
Donor Spotlight: Carolyn Zainer
Designing Better Outcomes: A Spotlight on Carolyn Zainer, Caz Designs Inc. In the realm of philanthropy, there are individuals who go above and beyond to make a lasting impact on the lives of others. Carolyn Zainer, a gracious donor, gala co-chair and advisory board...
Meet Alexis
At this year's Gala, attendees were captivated by the inspiring story shared by Alexis, a young woman who, with the support of StandUp for Kids, navigated the challenges of housing uncertainty to create a brighter future for herself and her four-year-old daughter....
Health through rehousing: An interview with StandUp for Kids case managers
By Matthew Marasli While homeless youth navigate living life on the street, personal health is not among their top priorities. We spoke with two StandUp for Kids case managers to find out how homeless youth begin to navigate their health throughout the rehousing...
SB 14 passed by California lawmakers
By Paula Fernandez, StandUp for Kids - Orange County California lawmakers unanimously passed Senate Bill 14 on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, marking a huge win for child advocacy. Senate Bill 14, or SB 14, would make child trafficking a serious felony under...
The Bridge Between Housing and Health
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Stability is the key to success. A stable and affordable home provides better opportunities and outcomes in regards to employment, health and education. As CalOptima Health CEO Michael Hunn states, “simply put, housing is...
Building Bonds That Last – Justine & Brittany, 15 Years Later
StandUp for Kids - Orange County [pictured left to right: Brittany and Justine] Looking back on the last 15 years together, Justine (Executive Director) and Brittany (Marketing & Fundraising Manager) of StandUp for Kids – Orange County reflect on the...
Ensuring Food Security – Lili’s Impact
StandUp for Kids - Orange County In August 2022, StandUp for Kids – Orange County received a fantastic addition to our volunteer team, Lili! She currently attends Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, CA, pursuing her degree in Liberal Studies. Slated to...
Meet Francisco: Emergency Shelter to Home Sweet Home
StandUp for Kids - Orange County After being kicked out of the house by his mom in 2021, Francisco (21) left in his car and drove to Las Vegas, where he said he was searching for a fresh start. He ended up living out of his vehicle and was hesitant to seek help....