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Building Bonds That Last – Justine & Brittany, 15 Years Later
February 15 2023
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 beginnings of their relationship and how it has evolved over the years. Brittany grew up in a low-income household with a brother and a single mother. With her mother having worked multiple jobs, Brittany spent her free time hanging out with friends. At 15 years old, Brittany found herself getting into some trouble and hanging out with the wrong crowd. At one point, she was living in a car or in motels that aren't meant for a ...
Read MoreEnsuring Food Security - Lili's Impact
January 26 2023
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 graduate in 2025, she is eager to utilize her time here at StandUp for Kids to impact youth throughout the county and gain transferable experience toward her goal of becoming an elementary school teacher. Her primary role at StandUp for Kids is her involvement in our WeDeliver program. Her day-to-day activities include: Organizing and stocking our food pantry when we receive new donations. Packaging food delivery ...
Read MoreMeet Francisco: Emergency Shelter to Home Sweet Home
January 4 2023
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. After a month, he returned to Orange County, where he called 211, an emergency number for housing assistance. Francisco was connected with a local shelter. He felt out of place in the shelter; some people there were older than him and used drugs. Francisco would search for employment and visit friends, which made him feel like “a normal person" for a short time. While at the shelter, he was connected with StandUp for ...
Read MorePeter's Experience as a Virtual Mentor
January 4 2023
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Meet Peter, one of our incredible mentors at StandUp for Kids. He was introduced to the organization through a virtual lunch with his company, Evisions. Since becoming a mentor, Peter has helped his mentee with college applications, career guidance, following their passions, understanding finances, and creating a stable footing while transitioning into adulthood. As a virtual mentor, Mr. Wilbur found it difficult at the beginning to differentiate guidance and mentorship from instruction. He stated, “I don’t want to come across as some know-it-all… because I don’t know it all! A big portion of the position calls for listening ...
Read MoreJasmine and Rachel - A Story of Hope, Encouragement, and Bonds
November 18 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Jasmine, a young girl from Montevallo, California, moved to Huntington Beach and started attending Westminster High School, searching for a fresh start. However, her troubles followed her wherever she went. Jasmine's mom was in and out of the house due to addiction. Although she did get sober, Jasmine was left alone to navigate life during the impressionable years. At 18, her mom told her that she needed to move out. With no one to help, Jasmine sought assistance within her new community of Orange County. Fortunately, she stumbled upon StandUp for Kids, seeking help with a place to stay. Jasmine, now a high school senior, reached out to StandUp for ...
Read MoreIsaac's Story
November 10 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County I left home at the age of 17, looking for a better life than living with my mom and stepfather, who verbally and physically abused me. Life on my own was not as easy as I thought it would be, but I felt I had no other choice. Eventually, I went to one of the few youth shelters in the city. The youth shelter was faith-based, and for a young gay guy this was not a good fit. I was soon back on the street, with more attempts at finding work and an apartment - both with intermittent brief successes and failures, but eventually leading me back to another try at the youth shelter. Again, it did not work. After some more time on the street, I decided to use the ...
Read MoreDarshell's story
November 10 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County I was 15 when I got pregnant with twins. Their father, 21, was very abusive to me and he was cheating. When I was 8 months pregnant he pushed me out of the bed and I lost one of the twins and I had to have the other early. She was 4 pounds. My mom and I took care of her. For a year everything was great. Her dad was never in her life, and I never expected him to be after what happened. When I turned 17 Mom started dating Mike. He was talking about having sex with me and I didn’t want any part of that. I told my mom about it, but she was naive because she was in love. I found out about Job Corps and two weeks later I left. I got my GED and my ...
Read MoreMeet Creg Parks – Long Time Donor and Advocate of StandUp for Kids
November 3 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Creg Parks has been a donor at StandUp for Kids for over nine years, and we admire his dedication to our mission. He has been working in healthcare for about 30 years doing consulting. He now owns his own company, where he helps and assists doctors, hospitals, and health plans, and does a variety of things to make healthcare a better industry. Creg is also launching a new company called Aspire. Aspire consists of a new mental health toolkit, a healthcare toolkit, and healthcare networks for employers. He has a passion for helping others, which he has been able to live out through supporting StandUp for Kids. He recently moved to San Diego but had ...
Read MoreMeet Heaven!
October 14 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Heaven is one of our current youths here at StandUp for Kids. We recently had the pleasure of hearing from her at our Gala. She was able to share her story and how she had been impacted specifically by her mentor, Leslie, who she has been working with for the past two years. Heaven’s story is extremely important to our organization and her story shows how valuable StandUp for Kids in its entirety is for youth all across the nation; especially in Orange County. What brought Heaven to StandUp for Kids was her situation: she was experiencing homelessness and needed help. Unfortunately, her parents were unable to help her, as they were going through their ...
Read MoreGala Recap - We raised over $200,000!
October 11 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County With an ambitious goal of raising $200,000 at our 5th annual Gala, we exceeded our goal by $3,000, totaling $203,000! Raising these funds would not have been possible without all our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests that attended the Gala on September 30th. Hosted at the beautiful Colony House in Anaheim, we celebrated the night at the inside and outdoor venue. The silent auction offered various items, including sporting events, art and photography, jewelry and accessories, and luxury getaway packages. Our guests enjoyed a night of dancing, socializing, and coming together to support youth experiencing homelessness. Guest speakers from ...
Read MoreMeet Kaitlin - One of Orange County's Youth Case Managers
October 11 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County A California native from Rancho Cucamonga, CA, she attended Cal State Fullerton as a psychology major. Kaitlin’s passions growing up as a kid and now as a young adult coincide with her work at StandUp for Kids. She enjoys public service by working with people and specifically supporting students. Though she did have a desire to teach for a bit, her work at StandUp for Kids allows her to fill a need through her love of supporting others and working with the youth. In her free time, Kaitlin enjoys making short films, acting, and enjoying the beautiful outdoors through hiking or traveling to national parks. However, her work life has a big part in ...
Read MoreGiving Up Is Never A Choice: Natalee’s Journey Towards Stability
September 6 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County We’ve all heard the saying “two under 2” is tough. Now imagine three kids, all under the age of five, while also experiencing homelessness. While it may feel like the odds are against her some days, Natalee nevertheless keeps on persevering. At 24 years old, this mother of three and her husband had been experiencing homelessness for months, as they had fallen on hard times regardless of Natalee’s husband working full-time. Despite her circumstances, Natalee tried her best to accomplish what she could with grace. She never complained, showed any anger, or showed she was having a bad day otherwise, all for the sake of her ...
Read MoreLoveSac Entrepreneur, Shawn Nelson, Provides Comfort to Newly Housed Youth
August 25 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Shawn Nelson, founder of LoveSac, an American furniture retailer generously donated furniture to StandUp for Kids! LoveSac’s contribution has impacted our youth by providing furniture that is not only comfortable but will last a lifetime. Shawn Nelson founded LoveSac during his youth. He was only 18 years old when he created the first LoveSac, a bean bag-like seat filled with proprietary Durafoam. LoveSac started as a side hustle to get Shawn through college, and he explored different fabrics and bead options to elevate the levels and quality of newer LoveSac models. He sold them locally to friends and people in his community. His market quickly ...
Read MoreWhat ‘Back to School’ Means For Youth Experiencing Homelessness
August 2 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County As we get closer to the end of summer, the air is filled with excitement from the changing season, and the stores are filled with people as everyone rushes to prepare for the new school year. Suppose you remember those times in your young life. In that case, you might remember many emotions about going back to school, like thinking about seeing friends you didn't see all summer or being in a new grade, or possibly even a new school. You might also remember fears or worries, like: Will I like my teachers this year? Will my clothes be cool enough? Will I find a ride to school every day? Will I have a safe place to study after school? Will I find a ...
Read MoreMeet Iris: From Couch Surfing to Home Sweet Home
July 19 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Meet one of our recently housed youth, Iris! She had been struggling with housing insecurity, couch surfing (sleeping on friend's couches), while trying to find a place to rent. She is currently attending college and working, so finding stable housing was an urgent need. Luckily, one of Iris' friends told her about StandUp for Kids, and we were able to connect with her! After completing her intake, Iris committed to our JTS (Journey to Self-Sufficiency) Program. This program entails attending weekly meetings and meeting with her mentor and case manager. Iris' case manager also got her into our Rapid Re-housing Program. She focused on looking for units ...
Read MoreJuly 2022 Volunteer of the Month: Jason Chon
July 12 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County At StandUp for Kids, our primary purpose is to serve the homeless and at-risk youth population by addressing many different aspects of their lives. At our outreach centers, we focus on teaching and mentoring youth on various meaningful life and academic skills to help them succeed in life and at school. This month, we want to highlight the exceptional efforts of Jason Chon, who has contributed tremendously to accomplishing these goals. Jason is a rising Senior at Canyon High school. He has been volunteering for the past three years, starting during his freshman year. For starting an online Summer Study Skills Camp, Jason says, “I ...
Read MoreWheely Great Car Show - OC's 3rd Annual Car Show Recap
July 7 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County This past June 18, we hosted our 3rd annual car show sponsored by KIA of Irvine at The Crossing Church. We want to thank The Crossing Church for the donated venue and KIA of Irvine for the support! We had a significant turnout, with many different car owners showing off their vehicles. From old-time classics to sporty new cars, there was something for everyone to enjoy! Besides cars, there was also great food from the Vacaloca food truck, which offered delicious street food. Aside from the food truck, ForGoodnessCakes also set up a booth with tasty treats! The treats satisfied our sweet tooth with car-themed goodies. We had various different raffle ...
Read MoreLGBTQIA+ Youth Homelessness
June 29 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Homelessness and Housing Insecurity Affects LGBTQIA+Youth’s Potential for an Accepting Successful Future One in four young transgender adults (between ages 18 through 25) endure homelessness. About 12.5% of the 18 through 25-year old age group report experiencing homelessness. Youth are on the streets for different reasons. Some reasons are drugs, pregnancies, or desire for freedom. In some cases, LGBTQ youth expereince homelessness or housing instability because of their identity. The 2021 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health observes the influence homelessness and housing instability has among LGBTQ youth. It also analyzes the ...
Read MoreMay 2022 Volunteer of the Month: Leigh
June 16 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County StandUp for Kids is not only dedicated to ending the cycle of youth homelessness, but is also committed to helping volunteers find a role they are passionate about. We admire all of our volunteers’ perseverance with StandUp for Kids. One volunteer in particular stood out this last month. Leigh joined StandUp for Kids in 2019 and since then she contributed her time to various different roles. She has worked in tutoring, food delivery, events, office work, and grant writing. “I volunteered for grant writing, and that is when I really had to commit my time and talent to the organization.” Despite the obstacles faced, Leigh was determined to ...
Read MoreStandUp for Kids Commits to "48 Hours on the Streets" Campaign to Help Homeless Youth
April 14 2022
Volunteers across the U.S. to meet homeless youth where they are, while raising awareness of the dangers typically faced in the first two days without shelter Atlanta, GA--(PRNewswire)--StandUp for Kids, a national non-profit organization dedicated to ending the cycle of youth homelessness, announced that its "48 Hours on the Streets" public service campaign - an annual event since its founding 31 years ago - will take place from April 22-24. StandUp for Kids hopes this call to action will elevate awareness of youth homelessness and the dangers typically faced in the first two days without shelter, which often include being approached by drug dealers and being lured into ...
Read MoreJoin Us Virtually on April 27th to Help Them Home! 24 Hours to Raise $40,000
April 8 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County One Day. $40,000. StandUp for Kids is excited to announce our participation in this year’s Help Them Home Virtual Giving Day! On April 27, 24 organizations will come together to raise funds to end homelessness in Orange County. We will have 24 hours to meet our goal of raising 40 thousand dollars. Last year was a huge success for StandUp for Kids. We were able to raise 48 thousand dollars, beating our goal of 40 thousand. This year, our goal will be 40 thousand again. We hope to match (hopefully surpass) the success of last year. Each night, nearly thirty thousand youth are experiencing homelessness in Orange County. StandUp for Kids is ...
Read MoreHoney and Her RMTS Experience
March 30 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Our Road Map to Success (RMTS) program supports our youth to accomplish their graduation, professional and life goals by providing a safe space with mentors who serve as role models and provide them the tools to thrive. Honey, a 17-year-old high school graduate, has only been with the program for three weeks. In just a short time, she said that she has gained a new outlook on life, with her mentors Kaitlin Rios and Xiamora Orozco guiding her to stay true to her commitments, budgeting and planning. Before StandUp for Kids, living in an unstable household, Honey lacked support in every aspect of her life. From the age of 12, when her parents divorced ...
Read MoreRecognizing 16 Years of Service to StandUp For Kids - Orange County
March 25 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Women's history month celebrates the women who continue to create a better world through their sacrifice and dedication to foster equality, inclusivity, and humanitarianism. Executive Director Justine Palmore exemplifies all of these traits, going above and beyond to ensure that our homeless and at-risk youth are looked after and that the staff and volunteers are supported as well, inspiring everyone she contacts along the way. Sixteen years ago, Justine first began her journey with StandUp for Kids - Orange County as an intern on a small team of three conducting street outreach. Over the years, the team has grown to over 100 volunteers and nine staff ...
Read MoreFebruary 2022 Volunteer of the Month - Nicheryl Knibb
March 15 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County At StandUp for Kids we value treating our homeless youth in creative ways, facilitating volunteer opportunities for those with a shared passion to make an impact in their own way. Nicheryl Knibb, a volunteer for the social media team here, spends most of her time caring for others. Growing up and working around her aunt’s group home she observed the obstacles and struggles that these children and adolescents faced. Although the group home closed after her aunt’s passing, this desire to give back remained ingrained and now, close to retirement, she decided that volunteering was the first step in reviving her aunt’s dream. Nicheryl is ...
Read MoreMeet Andy
February 24 2022
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Early Life Now 19 years old, Andy grew up in Santa Ana, where he remembers facing most of his struggles alongside his mom. There were financial hardships, and because of this, they had to accommodate and adjust to life. Sharing the same living space as two other families was the norm and the only way they could afford a place to live. This living situation was short-lived, as one day, they were unexpectedly told to leave. In the face of this new adversity, Andy not only lost the place he called home, but he also lost his mom. She left him to fend for himself, leading him to sleep in friends' cars or couch surfing from one place to the next. Overcoming ...
Read MoreTis The Season To Be Grateful
December 20 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County This past weekend, our Christmas party was filled with creative ways to celebrate the holidays in a way that brought all who attended, young or old, joy. The event was generously sponsored by Seabreeze Management, a local property management company based in Aliso Viejo. Their staff was invited to join us in celebrating the holiday– though they all opted to volunteer and served lunch to the youth and guests. Seabreeze Management brought on 24 Carrots Catering, a local catering business, and fed not just our youth but staff, volunteers, guests and interns. The food was beautifully laid out and tasted equally as good as it looked. The ...
Read MoreThe Story of Chief
September 22 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County The past year has been a difficult time filled with its fair share of uncertainties and unease. It is especially the case for much homeless youth, who face additional challenges. While the pandemic had put a pause on many things, life went on for homeless teens and young adults who had to press on, unsure of what their next meal would be and where they would sleep for the night. The stories of many youths are not very different from Chief. Homelessness has always been a big part of Chief's life, even spanning as far back as his childhood. For some time, while Chief was going to school, he was homeless along with his family. It was an ...
Read MoreSeptember 2021 Supporter Spotlight: Billy Huynh
September 22 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County When children are young, they dream of being doctors, firefighters, or even astronauts. However, for Billy Huynh, his dream of telling a compelling story started in middle school. Billy is a writer in our communications department. He graduated from Cal State Fullerton in the Spring of 2020 with a journalism degree and has worked endlessly on providing Stand Up For Kids - Orange County with the best writing pieces for our website. Billy first became involved with StandUp For Kids - Orange County in the fall of 2020, interning in the journalism, video, and podcast committee. Billy wrote many stories that we used on our web blog, social ...
Read MoreSuccess Is Where Preparation and Opportunity Meet
September 3 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Back in September 2020, we shared how StandUp for Kids, in collaboration with the county of Orange, made a groundbreaking move in the way we serve youth experiencing homelessness in Orange County. Through the tireless efforts of the Director of Program and Business Operations, Carlia Oldfather, and county staff, we have found a way to help our youth further. You can read more about this collaborative effort and how it relates to Transitional Aged Youth (TAY) here. (Coordinated Entry – A New Focus On Our Homeless Youth in Orange County | StandUp For Kids). We are back to provide you with fantastic news! StandUp for Kids continues to serve the ...
Read MoreDina and Her Journey
August 19 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County As Dina approaches the end of her time in high school, she can't help but reflect on a journey that has seen her overcome so much. To her admittance, the eighteen-year-old StandUp for Kids - Orange County youth who lives doubled up in an apartment, has undoubtedly taken an unconventional path to get to her current point. Up until high school, Dina lived an everyday life as a first-generation American and the oldest sibling of four children. However, her life and academic trajectory would be upended by a confounding illness that would give Dina headaches and severely weaken her ability to use her arms and legs. The severity and significance of this ...
Read MoreAugust 2021 Supporter Spotlight: Erin Jeon
August 17 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County The glamorous world of celebrities and social media influencers may seem far from a nonprofit that strives to end youth homelessness. Still, these two worlds can and do connect - in our case, thanks to the tireless efforts of our 17-year-old volunteer, Erin, who attends University High School in Irvine. Erin first heard about StandUp for Kids in April 2020 through United Way, a nonprofit she had been involved in at school. Erin initially considered volunteering as a youth mentor. Still, her interest in Public Relations and Marketing led her to join the marketing committee and then the Celebrity and Influencer Public Relations team, which she now ...
Read MoreJuly 2021 Supporter Spotlight: Kaaviya Sasikumar
July 29 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County StandUp for Kids - Orange County is comprised of volunteers, donors, and staff who all dedicate their time to helping disadvantaged and at-risk youth. Without their commitment, StandUp for Kids wouldn’t be able to support our youth each day with mentorship and developmental resources. With the current economic, political, and health concerns for youth and so many others, these contributions have never been more impactful or meaningful. This month we recognize the work and contributions of Kaaviya Sasikumar, a volunteer at StandUp for Kids - Orange County. Kaaviya, far left, with youth in the program Kaaviya first became involved with StandUp for ...
Read MoreDylan’s Courageous Journey of Coming Home
July 29 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Dylan, a 20-year-old youth in our program, recently spoke at our StandUp for Kids Car Show. His experience in public speaking comes from his seven years attending Al-Anon/Alateen – a group offering recovery-related programs for friends and families of alcoholics. But in addition to simply gaining practical skills, he says that developing his public speaking abilities also required the courage to engage with people willingly. A recent guest on our podcast, Dylan, did just that – courageously engaging with us to share his story for the benefit of anyone who might hear. "Even though some parts are miserable, I think there is a beautiful thing ...
Read MoreRemembering Chloe
July 15 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County “She cared about every single person - especially the people who had it the hardest.” “The most energetic, stubborn, artistic person I knew.” “Everybody loved her.” “Little artistic hustler selling her art around town.” “Unapologetically herself.” At the time of her passing in May 2021, Chloe’s 17 years were just beginning to scratch the surface of all she could have become. And although the identity she gained at the very end – accidental overdose victim – cast a dark shadow, her family and friends refuse to let these labels define her memory. Instead, they have chosen to ...
Read MoreNatalie’s Journey out of Darkness and into the Light
July 13 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Natalie, a current California State University student, is graduating with a degree in Theater and American Studies under the Arts and Education umbrella. She has always had a passion for expressing her abilities through her vocal and musical talents. The arts program was the driving factor in her choice to attend the University. Natalie's childhood was one of the unfortunate situations that scared our beautiful world. It showed her discovery of the light at the end of the tunnel. During the height of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, she found her life spiraling out of control. Growing up, Natalie never relied on her parents for much, conscious of the financial ...
Read MoreCold Calling to End Youth Homelessness, One Life at a Time
June 30 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County The term “cold calling” can bring up feelings of annoyance – we’ve all been on the receiving end of less-than-pleasant interactions with telemarketers – as well as dread for the person making the call. I’m Geno, and as an intern with StandUp for Kids, part of the work I did was making cold calls to raise awareness. I enlisted volunteers and donors to join the cause and gain referrals to help locate youths in need. I have to admit that my first few calls didn’t go the way I wanted. But by remembering the ultimate goal of getting the word out (along with a few valuable sales tips!) I’ve been able to enjoy ...
Read MoreBeyond Donations - RISA Supporter Spotlight
June 25 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Many kids don't grow up knowing anyone involved in STEM or attend a public school that focuses on the importance of STEM education. Not all kids have the same opportunities, but employees at RISA are helping to change that. We love that RISA employees "show their heart" to support homeless youth amid a global pandemic. That is why they're in this month's Supporter Spotlight. RISA has been developing structural analysis and design software for over 30 years. Getting involved in the community and giving back is an integral part of who they are. The company has a social committee that organizes fun events and volunteer opportunities, like charity fun ...
Read MoreGovernment Partnerships: A Key to Creating Change for Homeless Youth in Orange County
June 22 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County The increase in homelessness across the country has quickly turned into a national crisis. As a national organization with a mission to end the cycle of youth homelessness, we are fighting against this alarming trend. There are many ways StandUp for Kids works to help the homeless and at-risk youth in Orange County. We bring multi-faceted, wraparound support to youth through targeted programs that teach life skills while exposing youth to entrepreneurship and STEM. As an organization that has worked in Orange County for the past 18 years, we intimately know the population of homeless youth that we support. We know what they need to become ...
Read MoreApril 2021 Supporter Spotlight: Community Action Partnership of Orange County
April 30 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Each month, StandUp for Kids - Orange County likes to shine a spotlight on the work of our volunteers, donors, mentors, and partners. We do this because the impact we make daily for homeless and at-risk youth is only made possible by their contributions. This month, StandUp for Kids would like to recognize the work and support of our partner, Community Action Partnership of Orange County. Since its inception in 1965, Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAP OC) has worked tirelessly to address poverty, social justice, and racial equity within the community. They have done so by stabilizing and sustaining those in need by providing the ...
Read MoreFrom Couch Surfing & Airbnbs to Stability & Sanctuary - Meeka’s Story
March 11 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County For 20-year-old Meeka, growing up has been anything but predictable. Adopted as a toddler, her new parents already had three much-older children of their own. They were always moving, and she was in turn forced to jump from school to school. Combined with harsh restrictions around seeing friends and the identity issues inherent in being adopted, both her social connections and her relationship with her parents began to suffer. Looking back, Meeka believes their intentions were loving; but her parents’ strict demeanor led to her acting out, exhausted with the constant inability to, in simplest terms, “be a normal teenager.” She ...
Read MoreInternational Women’s Day and Supporter Spotlight: Heather Tompkins
March 5 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County International Women’s Day (March 8th) is about recognizing the achievements, big or small, of women. Heather Tompkins has dedicated her life to helping youth succeed in every way she can – from her career, to volunteering, even to leading Girl Scouts and supporting baseball teams – and her contributions have made a difference in the lives of countless children. Heather Tompkins is from Long Beach, California, where her father’s roles as pharmaceutical business owner and homeless advocate shaped the way she spoke up on behalf of her community. Growing up, she watched as her father lobbied government agencies for better business ...
Read MoreA Life Full of Hope
February 18 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County One persistent stigma surrounding homelessness is the idea that living on the streets results from laziness or a lack of motivation. But in reality, each situation is different - and blaming those in need simply leads to a lack of the resources that can help get people into housing. Hope is a 20-year-old who experienced this lack of aid when she needed it the most. As a teen, she worked a part-time job and took online classes, aiming to graduate from high school early and move out of the house at 18. But her parents’ divorce left her bouncing between them and eventually sharing a single rented room with her mother. Reaching out to ask for help - ...
Read MoreFebruary 2021 Supporter Spotlight: Ted Quinn
February 12 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Now more than ever, the work of our volunteers, donors, and mentors at Stand Up for Kids - Orange County deserves to be highlighted and acknowledged. Their commitment and kindness have helped ease the burden for our youth who face adversity each and every day StandUp for Kids recognizes Edward “Ted” Quinn with the distinction of Supporter of the Month for February 2021. Ted is a StandUp for Kids - Orange County advisory council member. He has served with excellence since his appointment in December 2020. In addition to serving as an council member for StandUp for Kids, Ted is also the president of Technology Resources, a consulting and ...
Read MoreJanuary 2021 Supporter Spotlight: Trellis & “The Secret Sauce”
January 20 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County In every thriving community is a stabilizing force or “secret sauce.” That “secret sauce” for Costa Mesa is Trellis. Trellis is a Costa Mesa nonprofit organization whose mission is to facilitate a collaborative approach to resolving the city’s greatest challenges: homelessness, literacy, and neighboring. They work to connect organizations such as businesses and churches with each other in order to create change. Trellis was formed by a group of pastors who were meeting weekly to pray for the city, and were led to move beyond prayer into action to help their community. Leading the charge is Executive Director Ian Stevenson. ...
Read MoreStepping Into The Light - Jeffrey
January 8 2021
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Born in Santa Ana and raised in Anaheim, Jeffrey’s life has been one of struggle – but also persistence. Growing up, he and his four siblings went from the care of their abusive mother to their abusive stepfather, and were eventually taken in by Jeffrey’s biological father. But far from being a loving home, it was clear that their presence was only valued for the government aid and food stamps they brought the household. Around this time, Jeffrey began hanging out with local gang members and getting into trouble: his friends introduced him to weed and alcohol at age twelve. Lacking affection and affirmation from his parents, Jeffrey was ...
Read MoreMorgan - A Raging Fire Inside
December 18 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Some people have so much character that "lively" doesn't encapsulate their energetic personality. This is true of Morgan, a youth who's been with StandUp for Kids for the past year. At just 23 years old, Morgan has been through several lifetimes' worth of struggles, yet remains strong. Morgan's fiery personality has gotten her into trouble at times. It's also brought her through the darkest of days and warmed all of our hearts at StandUp for Kids. Morgan was raised by a single mother, who had her at a young age. They lived in the projects of Mason City, Iowa, relying on welfare and food stamps to make ends meet. With her mother working constantly, Morgan ...
Read MoreBonds of Steel – The Story of Isaac
November 18 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Isaac is 23 years old and just started his career as a welder a few weeks ago. The job suits him quite well, not only because Isaac has a knack and a passion for welding, but because he is an expert at creating bonds. All his life, it seems that Isaac has managed to draw people together and form a team that supports one another. The bonds he forges may go through some periods of wear. However, Isaac does the necessary maintenance to keep them healthy and intact, much like the metal structures and machinery he welds at his job. Isaac grew up in a good family with his older brother, mother, and father. Religious differences would eventually cause his older ...
Read MoreNovember 2020 Supporter Spotlight: Kim Pennington
November 18 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County The coronavirus pandemic has altered the American way of life, from social distancing to mask requirements and the mandatory stay at home orders. But what about the individuals who don't have a home to begin with? StandUp for Kids has been hard at work to help these homeless youth this year and since our inception. Our Supporter of the Month Kim Pennington has been a key contributor to our success this year. Kim was born and raised in Huntington Beach, CA. She is married with two kids and works with her husband running a business. In her spare time she enjoys California's beautiful weather by riding horses, hiking, and kayaking. Kim and her family Kim saw ...
Read MoreA Force For Good: Why Walmart and Their Employees Give Back
November 6 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County StandUp for Kids - Orange County would like to highlight one of our most recent corporate partners, Walmart, and the dedication their employees have in giving back to their community. The fuel for the partnership came from Neil Sarreshteh, an employee with Walmart for the last 21 years and currently the E-Commerce Manager for 18 stores in southern California. Neil has also been volunteering for StandUp for Kids for the past year, working directly with homeless youth in the 18-24 age range. Neil came across StandUp for Kids while looking for an organization to get involved with that directly impacted how people in her community were living. She felt it was a ...
Read MoreExpanding Our Housing Impact – New Hires Arlene & Stephanny
November 4 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County In uncertain times like these, StandUp for Kids - Orange County finds it especially important and necessary to double our efforts in helping at-risk youths forge a path for a better future. One of the most significant ways to impact them is to provide safety and shelter. That is why we're excited to share more about strides made in our affordable housing program. Our housing program seeks to help place our youths in stable long-term living situations and give them the resources to succeed. StandUp for Kids recognizes that it isn't enough to find housing for our youth. We ensure that when we house our youth they are supported and given the tools to ...
Read MoreDebunking Myths About Homeless Youth
November 3 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Homelessness among youth populations has been growing in recent years -- but not for the reasons people may think. Youth encounter many issues that lead to homelessness and the perils that come with it. Listed below are some of the harmful myths that revolve around our youth and are backed with research conducted by governments, institutes, and universities (citations below). We also hear directly from the youth of StandUp for Kids - Orange County, who give their own personal story, that rebuke these myths. Myth #1: Homeless youth are responsible for their own poverty. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, youth fall into ...
Read MoreOctober 2020 Supporter Spotlight: Marta - Reflections of Our Success
October 21 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County When people look into a mirror, some tend to feel a sense of doubt or focus on their flaws and imperfections. What if, however, there was a unique mirror of introspection which showed you as the person you dream of becoming, with all the glory within you which you could not see for yourself. Better yet, what if there was a person who grew not by looking at themselves in such a mirror, but rather by using it to show others their potential and helping them reach that beautiful reflection of themselves. One such wielder of the “mirror of introspection” is StandUp for Kids’ October Supporter of the ...
Read MoreWhen Worlds Collide
October 21 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Living in Orange County can be challenging: from finding affordable housing to buying expensive furniture, it can be a nightmare to do everything yourself. So, when Marquis Bowen and his daughter needed help moving into his apartment, three worlds collided. Volunteers across Orange County stepped up to lend a hand. Marquis is a former homeless youth who is now a mentor at StandUp for Kids. Through hardship and perseverance, he has come a long way to finally finding a place to call home. As is the norm when a new youth becomes housed, Executive Director Justine Palmore put out a call for support to the StandUp for Kids family, looking for home furnishings. ...
Read MoreRJ: Only Looking Up
October 14 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County RJ in his new home RJ was taken from his birth mother and placed into foster care at a young age. Although he was adopted by two parents with other adopted siblings, it was not a loving environment to grow up in – his home never felt like a home, and feelings of isolation and loneliness were pervasive. At 17, RJ was failing his senior year of high school; so he left Arizona for California. He put himself back into high school in Huntington Beach, determined to push through to achieve his high school diploma. He lived with a friend while attending high school; but it wasn’t a good place for him, and as his substance abuse worsened, he resorted to ...
Read MoreSeptember 2020 Supporter Spotlight: Valerie - A Ray of Sunshine
September 23 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Not all heroes wear capes. A phrase that we have all heard before, but it rings true especially for Valerie. There are many people in the world struggling with drug abuse, homelessness, addiction, and family problems. Organizations such as StandUp for Kids have been created to provide help and support for these people, and have made a huge impact. These organizations are able to be impactful because of the people that support and volunteer every week. Volunteers serve as the backbone that holds up the organizations. Every person plays a vital role in making a change, and one prime example is Valerie, our September Supporter of the Month. Valerie ...
Read MoreQuietly Stepping into the Light - Natzumy
September 11 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County If someone were to hit shuffle on Natzumy’s music library they’d be equally as likely to land on a Disney show tune or a true crime podcast – but you’d never guess it on first meeting her! Fourteen-year-old Natzumy is shy, but not as shy as she used to be. Natzumy recalls that she was incredibly nervous for her very first after school meeting that she attended at StandUp for Kids because it was an unknown new place with new people, both of which make her anxious. But when her friend Michelle introduced her to the volunteers, this anxiety was replaced with comfort. “I felt safe with StandUp for Kids,” Natzumy ...
Read MoreCoordinated Entry – A New Focus On Our Homeless Youth in Orange County
September 11 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Prioritization is a big factor when it comes to placing the homeless population into shelters. The Coordinated Entry System (CES) is a network that allows for communities to help individuals and their families fix their housing crises. It is essentially a list of people that are experiencing homelessness filtered and prioritized into specific community standards. The CES is regulated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Orange County coordinates through CES at a county level between available housing and pressing needs. Need is then defined by many factors; The goal is to funnel the support services in Orange County to help ...
Read MoreStanding With the Schools In Orange County
August 14 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County As the new school year approaches, many people have questions on how schools and families are going to react to the changes COVID-19 has made. The USA currently has the highest number of infections and deaths and the trajectory of the pandemic is uncertain. There are numerous hot spots in the country and within California. The CDC continues to strongly encourage people to social distance and wear masks. Our Executive Director Justine Palmore is strong and steadfast in her resolve to be there when our youth need us. “Families and students are going to struggle to adjust to the new online school year but StandUp for Kids will always do everything in our ...
Read MoreAugust 2020 Supporter Spotlight: Abe Neudorf & Skyline Consultants
August 14 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Abe Neudorf is the 25-year-old co-founder of Skyline Consultants. Abe grew up in Rochester, New Hampshire with six younger siblings all of which were homeschooled. Abe’s love for children and working to improve their lives started in his very own household. In 2004 Abe’s family bought a small business and grew it 3 to 4 times its original standing. Through this experience, Abe learned how to function and expand an organization. “Being homeschooled allowed me to spend a lot of my time working with my family and the business and learning how businesses work, learning how organizations work...and really what it takes to grow them.” In ...
Read MoreSeabreeze Management Company and CEO Isaiah Henry Partners with StandUp for Kids
August 4 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Seabreeze visited our Anaheim center and brought dinner to our kids 30 years ago, Seabreeze was created as a community management company who manages commercial and residential properties with a greater goal of bettering the community around them— connecting and developing relationships with clients, as well as building connections with local charities. After speaking with CEO and company owner of Seabreeze Management Company, Isaiah Henry, it is clear that he and his team genuinely value the relationships they create with their clients and care about the community around them and will do whatever they can to help others. CEO Isaiah Henry Henry ...
Read MorePartner Spotlight: Fairmont Preparatory Academy
July 29 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Each day, StandUp for Kids - Orange County strives to make a difference in the lives of homeless and underprivileged youth. From grocery deliveries to tutoring sessions, no stone is left unturned by the volunteers and mentors that make up the organization. StandUp for Kids - Orange County’s success and ability to connect with numerous youths and families comes from its partnerships within local communities. Once such partnership involves Fairmont Preparatory Academy, whose campus is located in Anaheim. It strives to instill values of selflessness and a commitment to community service with its culturally diverse student body. One of the ...
Read MoreRising to the Challenge - Staff Member Xiomara Orozco
July 29 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County The COVID-19 pandemic is constantly evolving, with cases on the rise. We are surrounded by uncertainty when it comes to a vaccine, changing safety recommendations, and what our new “normal” will look like. During this unstable time, one constant the StandUp for Kids’ youth can depend on is Xiomara Orozco’s dedication to them and her job. Xiamora (right) awarding a youth for their completion of the 2019 Summer Entrepreneur Program Xiomara has been with StandUp for Kids since May 2019 as the Anaheim Outreach Center Coordinator. She came across the job listing after previously working at an elementary school and a community center for ...
Read MoreThe Power of a Helping Hand: Michelle’s Path to Reclaiming Her Life
July 17 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange CountyMichelle looked directly into the camera, smiled, and reflected, “she uplifted my spirit that day”. Denise, who was on the receiving side of this compliment delivered via Zoom call, smiled from ear to ear. It immediately became clear that the mentorship that StandUp for Kids volunteer Denise provided to twenty-four-year-old homeless youth Michelle was something that altered the course of Michelle’s life for the better. Before Michelle met Denise, she had been living out of her father’s car for over three months. For as long as Michelle can remember, things have been hard for her and her family. Michelle recalls that in her ...
Read MoreUnitedHealth Group Steps Up in Support of Homeless Youth with StandUp for Kids
July 14 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County UnitedHealth Group is one of America’s largest health care companies with a mission to help people live healthier lives and help the health care system work better for everyone. While the company works on a global scale to positively impact health care, it understands the unique and immediate needs local communities face and works to support those as well. That includes assisting StandUp for Kids in Orange County. “I am really honored to work at a company that is so socially responsible, even at the heart,” says Diana Lyon. Lyon has worked at Optum, a UnitedHealth Group company, for almost seven years in data analytics and reporting while ...
Read MoreJuly 2020 Supporter Spotlight: Rich Vedas
July 10 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County StandUp for Kids - Orange County would like to take a step back and spotlight the efforts of its volunteers, mentors, and donors who’ve helped make initiatives like grocery deliveries and online tutoring sessions possible even during these tumultuous times. The year 2020 hasn’t offered much in terms of stability or consistency. However, if there is a constant then it’s the persistence and tenacity of these individuals who continuously strive to better the lives of youth. For this month, StandUp for Kids would like to highlight the work of Rich Vedas with the honor of Supporter of the Month for July 2020. Rich is a relative newcomer to ...
Read MorePartner Spotlight: 449 Recovery
July 3 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County After winning his battle against substance abuse and getting sober in 2009, Vito Tassone is now the co-founder of his own addiction treatment center, 449 Recovery. Vito Tassone, Chief Marketing Officer and Co-Founder of 449 Recovery After successfully reaching sobriety, Vito was offered a position at the facility he received care from. In the 18 months Vito spent answering phones for the facility, he noticed something. He saw that clients were not receiving the care they needed in order to fully recover. This, along with improper insurance, resulted in drops from the recovery program before completion. Rodney Robinson, Vito’s current business partner ...
Read MorePartner Spotlight: Moms Against Poverty
July 2 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Despite an unexpected and prolonged crisis that has upended so much, StandUp for Kids - Orange County has remained steadfast in its support of youth and their families. Initiatives like online tutoring sessions and grocery deliveries have been made possible by volunteers and partners in the local community. One of our closest partners is Moms Against Poverty, which has helped StandUp for Kids - Orange County find innovative ways to continue providing mentorship and guidance for its youth. A California-based organization that operates globally, Moms Against Poverty was founded in 2008 by Delfarib Fanaie and others with the goal of empowering ...
Read MoreA Ray of Light in the Dark: The Unfinished Story of Alex
June 30 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County While his middle school classmates were participating in school sports or learning to play an instrument, Alex was sleeping on the streets and abusing drugs. Throughout his adolescence, Alex battled drug addiction, homelessness, and deaths in his immediate family. But committing to drug rehabilitation was the beginning of a new story for Alex, enabling him to act on his desire to help others - not only by pursuing a career as an EMT, but also by participating in charity work and volunteering for various organizations along the way, including Operation Officer Outreach, an initiative which provided care packages and supplies to support local paramedics ...
Read More90 Days or Less: Kat’s Story
June 10 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County By Courtney Lopez, Communications Intern From the day that a youth agrees to our program to the day they become self-sufficient; StandUp for Kids tracks the amount of time it takes. As a nonprofit, these numbers show what’s working and what’s not, and help to make sure resources are being used well. Learning as a new marketing intern during my orientation, all of this made sense. But the impressive part was hearing the goal itself: to transition a youth from crisis to self-sufficiency in just 90 days! That's 90 days to get that youth off the street (or someone's couch) and into a housing situation; then working on a resume and interview prep to ...
Read MoreJune 2020 Supporter Spotlight: Belle Riegg
June 10 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County In recent months, StandUp for Kids - Orange County has worked to find new and creative ways to continue providing critical services to homeless and at-risk youth in our community. As a non-profit with a small staff, we rely heavily on our volunteers. Their responsibilities range from delivering food to youth to telling our story via social media and our website. We want to thank all of our volunteers for their work in helping us serve youth in our community during this challenging time. We want to show our appreciation by highlighting Belle Riegg, a volunteer who has been with us since last fall. Belle is an Orange County native, a recent graduate of ...
Read MoreCOVID-19 from a College Student Perspective
June 5 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County We can all agree on one thing right now. These times are strange. Everything has been impacted by COVID-19 and we are all experiencing a world we don’t recognize. It’s been months now since normalcy. Months since businesses and schools were open, grocery stores were stocked with toilet paper and paper towels and going outside didn’t include a mask and gloves. It feels like we’re living somewhere between a zombie apocalypse and what Martial Law might feel like. Things are getting more hopeful each day but it’s a scary time for college students right now. I would know because I am one. My name is Courtney. I'm currently a ...
Read MorePartner Spotlight: The Crossing Church in Costa Mesa
June 5 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County During times of crisis there are those who standout. These individuals display a desire to help without expecting anything in return. Members of The Crossing Church have stepped up in these uncertain times and have provided much needed help to StandUp for Kids - Orange County. Located in Costa Mesa, The Crossing Church opened 31 years ago with the goal of welcoming everyone, no matter their background or circumstance. It is an organization of overall acceptance. Throughout its history the church has consistently shown their commitment to helping those in need. Their efforts vary from book drives for a local elementary school to launching a check-in center ...
Read MoreLooking Back on 30 Years: Andrew
May 13 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Andrew is from the Southeast Florida city of Fort Lauderdale and had lived there for the first 15 years of his life. Andrew's childhood was more difficult than most. Andrew lost his mother at the young age of 7 years old. Consequently, Andrew went to live with his father and step-mother after his mother’s passing. At the age of 15 Andrew and his family moved from Florida to California and at the age of 17 Andrew decided to leave home and live on his own. He explained that his decision to leave home came with a high degree of challenges. With no job and no help from his family, Andrew faced his fair share of struggles with ...
Read MoreMay 2020 Supporter Spotlight: Jeanine Moss
May 13 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Homeless youth are always in crisis. Whether it’s a violent home, neglect and abandonment, or a worldwide pandemic, homeless youth can’t “shelter in place.” That’s the reality Jeanine Moss was moved by when she reached out to support StandUp for Kids in 2019 since moving back to the Southland after several decades working in branding, marketing and business development in New York City. This month, StandUp for Kids recognizes Jeanine Moss with the distinction of Supporter of the Month for May 2020. Jeanine came ...
Read MoreStandUp for Kids - Orange County Launches "We Deliver" to Serve Needs of its Youth
May 1 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County The ongoing crisis has left much uncertainty for all and rightfully has been cause for anxiety and worry. This is especially true for the youth population who have been forced to deal with a variety of challenges that have arisen as a result of the unprecedented nature of current times. Recognizing this, the mentors and volunteers at StandUp for Kids are doing all they can to help their youth by providing both emotional and physical support. From the early onset of the crisis, StandUp for Kids has been scheduling virtual tutoring and mentoring sessions for its youth providing them with needed academic guidance and moral ...
Read MoreA Big Thank You To All of Our Volunteers!
April 17 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County With the coming arrival of National Volunteer Week, StandUp for Kids would like to take a moment to highlight the contributions of its volunteers who strive each day to provide a better future for youth and students. Volunteers at StandUp for Kids know the importance of mentorship in the development of youth. Amidst a crisis that has caused so much uncertainty, volunteers at StandUp for Kids have remained determined and resolute in supporting their youth. The closure of schools has negatively impacted students because they no longer have access to a stable personalized learning environment. It’s an unprecedented situation that sees many ...
Read MoreCOVID-19 Impact Report – College Students in Orange County
April 8 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County According to statewide data, last year 13% of community college students, 12% of CSU undergraduates, and 4% of UC undergraduates faced housing insecurity or homelessness. In Orange County this translates as up to 14,000 college students aged 18 – 24, living in cars, on the couches of friends, or in other unsafe arrangements at some point in the year. Several of our nine community colleges have confirmed that there are over 1,000 students on their campus who report themselves to be either currently homeless or at high risk of homelessness. These numbers are pre-COVID-19; numbers may be even higher today. We compiled additional data last month in ...
Read MoreLooking Back on 30 Years: Donny's Story
April 3 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Amidst difficult and uncertain times, it’s important to reflect and be grateful for all that we have. Throughout the country, many homeless youths are faced with an uncertain reality, unsure of their next meal and sleeping place. Their story is not unlike that of Donny who came to StandUp for Kids in search of guidance and mentorship. Life growing up seemed like an endless fight for Donny. There were never moments of peace for Donny. Instead it was perpetual battles with both his family and his ...
Read MoreHope and Opportunity: The Story of Ernie
April 3 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Hope and Opportunity: The Story of Ernie Even amidst trying and unsettling times the mentors and volunteers that comprise StandUp for Kids are working tirelessly to provide support for students who now more than ever require guidance. It’s students like Ernie, a senior currently in high school, who StandUp for Kids work with weekly, mentoring them in all aspects of development. Ernie was first introduced to StandUp for Kids when there was remodeling in his neighborhood area that left an open vacant building available. The vacant building would be filled by StandUp for Kids. Intrigued by the prospect of possible educational help, ...
Read MoreApril 2020 Supporter Spotlight: Kim Severini
April 3 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Kim Severini, originally from the east coast, is a retired executive in sales and marketing in the travel sector and has worked with various airlines, hotels and even Disney. After working in the travel sector for a number of years. Kim retired and eventually moved to the west coast where she became acquainted with Justine Palmore at a local church. Kim had always had a heart for communal involvement and charity and made it a priority to devote her time and resources to giving back to the community post-retirement. Kim and Justine’s budding friendship led Kim to StandUp for Kids. For Kim local, national and international charity support has been ...
Read MoreMarch 2020 Supporter Spotlight: Stephanie Schneider
March 12 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Each day, at-risk youth throughout various StandUp for Kids chapters are receiving the necessary mentoring and guidance needed for a successful transition into adulthood. The work that StandUp for Kids accomplishes daily would not be possible if not for the efforts of its donors, community partners and volunteers. For this month, StandUp for Kids would like to highlight the work of Dr. Stephanie Schneider with the honor of Supporter of the Month for March 2020. Stephanie serves as an advisory board member for StandUp for Kids. After a long-distinguished career in education working at the Orange County ...
Read MoreLooking Back on 30 Years: Jennifer's Story
March 10 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Like many who have come to StandUp for Kids, Jennifer Aubrey's story is one of perseverance and inner strength. Jennifer was faced with various challenges growing up amidst an unstable home environment that left her emotionally unsupported. When things became untenable at home, Jennifer saw it necessary to move out, but would soon find herself without a home after plans had fallen through. After exhausting nearly every option, Jennifer found StandUp for Kids. “I had nowhere to go because going back to my mom's house was not an ...
Read MoreFebruary 2020 Volunteer Spotlight: Ted Lundholm
February 18 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County StandUp for Kids is a non-profit that relies heavily on volunteers to support the mission to end the cycle of youth homelessness. We sincerely thank everyone who has volunteered and continues to work with us to help our youth. To that end, we want to put our volunteer spotlight this month on Ted Lundholm. Ted has been a volunteer with StandUp for Kids for two years. He came to us through word of mouth and has shown that he is here to help whenever he is needed. Ted started volunteering as a mentor at our previous Fullerton site and eventually ran that site mostly on his own until we moved that programming to Anaheim. Ted has always had a heart for helping ...
Read MoreFebruary 2020 Donor Spotlight: Shadi Shaffer
February 18 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Every day at StandUp for Kids, countless homeless and at-risk youth are taken under our wing. In transitioning them from crisis to connection, our efforts are entirely made possible by the support of our donors, community partners and volunteers alike. This month, we would like to showcase the efforts of a long-time donor, volunteer and advisory board member of ten years, Shadi A. Shaffer, and congratulate her with our Donor Spotlight for February 2020. Over ten years ago, Shadi A. Shaffer was introduced to Justine Palmore, Executive Director of StandUp for Kids, by an associate attorney, Daniel Alexander, who provided legal services and assistance to ...
Read MoreLooking Back on 30 Years: Grover's Story
February 13 2020
Throughout the history of StandUp for Kids there exist numerous stories of homeless youth overcoming the barrier to success with the help of guidance and mentorship. One of those stories is that of Grover’s who first came into contact with StandUp for Kids in 1999. Life prior to reaching out to StandUp for Kids was cyclical for Grover. Each day was an exercise in futility with an emphasis on making it through the day in one piece. “Panhandle most of the day away for food and alcohol. Find a doorway to sleep in or a bridge to sleep under. Wash, rinse, repeat.” The moment of realization that a change was necessary for Grover came when he was arrested and placed into ...
Read MoreAdults Don’t Get Uncomfortable. Everybody Does.
February 11 2020
Courtney LopezStandUp for Kids - Orange County Wednesday, December 18, at 4 p.m. I have no idea what to expect. I keep thinking, "Should I go?" "I won't know what to do." "Why am I so nervous? They're only youth." Youth. 12 to 18 years old. I'm a first-time intern. I don't know what I'm doing, what is expected of me. I'm just trying to graduate and to do some good with my graduation requirement. When my boss mentioned the center in Anaheim, he described 12 to 18-year-olds, getting mentored and doing their homework, and a healthy dinner would be provided, so I knew I had to go. No, not just for the dinner. I'm a broke college kid, the dinner was a good incentive. I knew that just going a ...
Read MoreLooking Back on 30 Years: September 2013 - Opening of the first Anaheim Outreach Center
February 11 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County This year, StandUp for Kids is celebrating its 30th anniversary. This local non-profit has been able to provide services for an often-overlooked demographic in the issue of homelessness, the youth. The StandUp for Kids - Orange County chapter has been up and running for over half of the organization’s trajectory. Since 2003, StandUp for Kids - OC has been a champion for leading homeless youth to an independent lifestyle and preventing at-risk youth from gang involvement, teen pregnancy, high school drop-out rates. For the past 17 years in Orange County, StandUp for Kids has been able to do street outreach in order to provide resources for ...
Read More2019 Year in Review
February 6 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County This is an exciting time at StandUp for Kids as we celebrate our 30th Anniversary. While the organization has evolved over the years, our mission has remained consistent: to end the cycle of youth homelessness, one life at a time. Thank you to our wonderful board, staff, interns, volunteers, donors and community partners whose dedicated work improves the lives of our youth and also prepares them for a better future. We appreciate every single gift and act of kindness. Our 2019 Impact During 2019, we served over 400 youth providing nearly 10,000 instances of support. We were able to provide housing to 85 youth and maintained an 85% success rate moving our ...
Read MoreKia Calls For Nationwide Blitz Against Youth Homelessness In Super Bowl Campaign
January 29 2020
News provided by Kia Motors America Kia Teams with Standout Rookie Running Back Josh Jacobs in 60-Second Spot Focused on Overcoming Adversity and Achieving the Impossible Dream Jacobs - who experienced homelessness growing up - gives his "younger self" valuable encouragement and advice For every yard gained during the big game, Kia's "Yards Against Homelessness" initiative will donate $1,000 to three charity partners dedicated to ending the issue of youth homelessness IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 29, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- What would you tell a younger you trying to make your way through the world? For Josh Jacobs, who rose from homelessness in middle school to football stardom, it is an inspiring ...
Read MoreKia Chooses StandUp for Kids for Big Game Campaign
January 27 2020
Kia Motors America has announced that their Big Game commercial this Sunday will address youth homelessness. What's more, the company has decided to give a major donation to StandUp for Kids and two other organizations caring for homeless youth in America! According to Kia, "This year, with more than 4.2 million young people experiencing homelessness in the U.S., the car company known to 'Give It Everything' will use its big game advertising platform to give back in a meaningful way. For every yard gained during the game, Kia will donate $1,000 to three charity partners dedicated to ending the issue of youth homelessness and transforming the lives of young people in ...
Read MoreJanuary 2020 StandUp for Kids - Orange County Volunteers of the Month
January 22 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County StandUp for Kids is a non-profit who relies heavily on volunteers to support the mission to end the cycle of youth homelessness. We sincerely thank everyone who has volunteered and continues to work with us to help our youth. To that end we want to spotlight three individuals who were instrumental to our marketing efforts in 2019 and have recently ended their internships with StandUp for Kids. Sarah Ochoa, Amanda Jacobsen, and Agnija Dean are the January 2020 Volunteers of the Month. These three women all attend(ed) California State University - Fullerton, with Agnija as the recent ...
Read MoreJanuary 2020 StandUp for Kids - Orange County Donor of the Month
January 22 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County StandUp for Kids is a non-profit who relies on a backbone of donors to make our mission to end the cycle of youth homelessness a reality on the streets each day. Without the funding provided we simply wouldn’t exist and thus we want to sincerely thank all of you who have supported us so generously. This month we would like to spotlight Jason Makevich as the Donor of the Month for January 2020. Jason has been a constant supporter of StandUp for Kids, continually going above and beyond for the organization. He takes part in our annual giving fund, Turkey Dinner Drive, ...
Read MoreJanuary is National Mentoring Month
January 22 2020
StandUp for Kids - National The arrival of the month of January brings with it a renewed focus on youth guidance and mentorship. Since its inception in 2002, National Mentoring Month is held each January highlighting the work that non-profit organizations, like StandUp for Kids, do for youth experiencing or at-risk of experiencing homelessness across the United States. First founded in 1990 by volunteers in San Diego, StandUp for Kids was formed seeking to provide a support system for youth who are at-risk or experiencing homelessness to end the cycle of youth homelessness in their community. Today, it is a national non-profit charity that works closely with thousands of homeless ...
Read MoreMeet Brian
January 22 2020
StandUp for Kids - National Few stories are as emblematic of StandUp for Kids desire to positively impact the lives of homeless youth than that of Brian Haslip’s. Brian’s first interaction with StandUp for Kids came in 1995 when he was 15-years- old living on the streets of San Diego. Brian had come to California from Arkansas to live with his mother, but now found himself without a home. Volunteers from the local StandUp for Kids chapter came into contact with Brian and supplied him with food and hygiene products. StandUp for Kids also provided Brian with a means to contact his father. This was the ...
Read MoreAlabama
January 7 2020
StandUp for Kids - Orange County The end of 2019 marked another year in which StandUp for Kids was able to provide guidance and relief for homeless youth through providing resources and mentorship. Alabama was one of these individuals, who despite being dealt several obstacles, still managed to better her life and develop new skills that equip her for the challenges that come her way. Alabama's lengthy emotional journey of perseverance is atypical of someone of her young age. Originally from Tennessee, she sought an escape from an unstable home situation that featured parental drug use and moved to California. Her troubles would persist, however as the housing situation she found herself ...
Read MoreCars For A Cause Success!
November 8 2019
Thank you to all of you who attended and contributed to the 1st Annual StandUp for Kids Cars for a Cause event. Thanks to your generosity the event generated $17,750 in donations! These funds will go towards supporting youth through our program to become self-sufficient, to provide housing as a part of that process, buy Christmas gifts and support the overall mission to end the cycle of youth homelessness in Orange County. This event wouldn't have been possible without a lot of volunteer hours, in kind gifts, great cars, a great band and a wonderful group of donors. Your ...
Read MoreHope for Dilan
September 26 2019
StandUp for Kids - Orange County For youth in difficult circumstances, often it’s because of things they cannot control. But for UCLA freshman, Dilan, his circumstances did not hinder him from success. With help from several organizations, including StandUp for Kids, he was able to strive for a better life. Born in Germany, Dilan arrived in America when he was five years old. With his four other siblings, mother and step-father, they lived in and out of hotel rooms. Growing up in such an unstable environment fostered Dilan’s want to be independent. Dilan’s mother kicked him out at the beginning of ...
Read MoreSee you in San Antonio
September 22 2019
Starting Friday September 27, the entire StandUp for Kids family -- from outreach volunteers, local leaders, and executive directors, to donors, national board, and staff -- will convene in San Antonio, Texas for mark our 29th year, and partake in one very special National Conference. The theme of this year's conference is "Remember the Mission," evoking the neaerby Alamo Mission's cry. We thought it would be fitting to tie in local roots with our own mission of "ending the cycle of youth homelessness." For the young people we serve, their own plea for independence rings ever so loudly in our ears and mobilizes us to take action. Together at this national conference, we have the ability ...
Read MoreJoin Us In Welcoming Judi Wickham, Director of Volunteers
September 3 2019
StandUp for Kids - Orange County by Carlia Oldfather We are so excited and grateful to welcome Judi Wickham to her new leadership role. Although Judi has been volunteering with StandUp for Kids - Orange County for more than five months, it wasn't until a few weeks back that Judi approached StandUp with the desire to do more. Judi quickly felt motivated and inspired to take on one of the most important roles in any non-profit organization, Director of Volunteers. Judi will facilitate all monthly Volunteer Training, work directly with me on developing and implementing a Strategic Volunteer Engagement Plan and she will lead all of the Orange County chapter's volunteer support & engagement ...
Read MoreJordan and Jacob: A Couple’s Path to a Better Life
August 23 2019
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Living on the streets tore 21-year-old Jordan’s and 24-year-old Jacob’s lives apart. The couple had spent two years trying to get off the streets before they connected with StandUp for Kids. They had lost hope, but now they are on their way to a future they never thought was possible. “I wish it was easier for kids to get off the streets. I wish it was easier for everyone to get off the streets,” says Jordan. Before they became homeless, the two knew each other from school. Jacob grew up in an abusive and alcoholic environment. Struggling with ADHD and Bipolar Disorder, Jacob developed bad habits and spent time in and out of ...
Read MoreJordan and Jacob's Story on NBC 4 Los Angeles
August 12 2019
StandUp for Kids - Orange County NBC 4 in Los Angeles featured a story about two remarkable young people, Jordan and Jacob. Their story helped demonstrate the impactful, personal connections we build with our youth. If you happened to miss the clip, watch it above or go to the NBC4 website. And be sure to read more about Jordan and Jacob in our related blog post.
Read MoreA Silent Crisis
August 9 2019
By Dr. Stephanie Schneider For too many college students, worries about exams and research papers often take a back seat to finding a place to sleep. Studies on California campuses tell us that 4% of UC students, 12% of CSU students, and nearly 20% of community college students are either housing-insecure (not sure they if they will have housing in the near future) or are outright homeless – sleeping in their cars, on fellow students’ couches, or even in campus libraries. This means that in Orange County, over 20,000 students face these challenges each year. Students take many paths that lead to this situation. Some were homeless before college and were admitted without a ...
Read MoreCarMax Supports StandUp for Kids
July 26 2019
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Last week on July 17th our good friends from the CarMax Costa Mesa location came out to the Anaheim Center to volunteer their time with the youth and bring a check in the amount of $10,000 to support StandUp for Kids. CarMax has been supporting the cause of ending the cycle of youth homelessness with StandUp for Kids each year for the last eight years. Eight to ten staff members, including Sales Manager Joey Caires and General Manager Mark Diggs, came out for a night of mentoring and games to bond with the youth (age 12 – 18) at our Anaheim mentoring location. The youth and the CarMax employees did large and small group activities and were ...
Read MoreKrysta: A Young Girl's Journey From Hopeless To Hopeful
July 26 2019
StandUp for Kids - Orange County Krysta thought that no one cared enough to help her. Then she found StandUp for Kids. For the past three years eighteen-year-old Krysta had been alone. After her mother was deported back to Mexico, the people she thought she could rely on betrayed her. She was put in her aunt’s custody and had been supporting herself while living in their home. However, one day she came home to find that she had been kicked out and was left alone on the streets. Frightened and unsure about her future, Krysta knew that she was in trouble. She had nowhere to go and bills to pay. Her manager offered to help but only in exchange for sexual favors. She began ...
Read MoreStandUp for Kids Has a New Look
July 24 2019
After nearly thirty years of serving youth in need, we are thrilled to announce that the StandUp for Kids brand had a makeover! Youth-Centered Our new logo captures the awesome potential of young lives when they know care, feel loved, and have the support they need to move quickly from surviving to thriving. Youth are the heart of our organization, so it was important to convey that. The logo is youth-centered, energetic, and a clever evolution of our former look. Proud to be the Purple People Purple often represents wisdom or creativity. To the youth we serve, it represents safety, care, and support. Our kids often call volunteers the Purple People. Youth know they can trust them to get ...
Read MoreAl’s Story: A Path to New Beginnings
March 20 2019
StandUp For Kids - Orange County Born in Uganda and abandoned by his parents at age 6, Al moved to the US with his aunt, uncle and sister when he was 10, but only to discover more obstacles and mental abuse. He does not have fond memories of his childhood; his father was addicted to drugs and alcohol and his mother could no longer afford to take care of him and his sister. After years of neglect and an abusive upbringing, Al began to use marijuana as a way to ease his pain, depression and insomnia – he was introduced to marijuana by his father at age 5. As a result of legal issues involving domestic abuse, Al moved out of his uncle’s house and began sleeping in a shed ...
Read More10 Ways To Help
February 19 2019
StandUp For Kids - Orange County If helping your community wasn’t part of your New Year’s resolution, or it was and you just haven’t found the time or the inspiration to make it happen yet – we’ve got some ideas for you. All of our volunteers have unique skills that make a huge difference for our organization and the young people we support. Financial donations are always appreciated, and fully utilized to help get people off the street and on their way to self-sufficiency, but there are lots of other ways you can get involved too. Here are some ideas we have for how you can get involved in our many programs, but we’re always open for your creative ...
Read MoreJoin Us For Our 2nd Annual Gala!
February 6 2019
StandUp For Kids - Orange County Join us for our 2nd Annual Gala! It is a great opportunity to learn and support all while enjoying live entertainment, fine food and wine! This event will support our mission of ending the cycle of youth homelessness, one youth at a time in Orange County. Event DetailsWhen: Saturday, May 4, 2019 from 6-10pmWhere: The Chuck Jones Center for Creativity, 3331 Hyland Ave, Costa Mesa CA 92626Cost: $150 individuals, $1,350 table of 10 Purchase tickets here: https://standupforkids.ticketleap.com/sufk2019gala/
Read MoreUpdate: House of Hope - Phase 1
February 6 2019
StandUp for Kids - Orange County We are excited to announce that we have found a location to start phase 1 of our House of Hope project. While searching for a home, we have found how difficult it is to find a place that has everything that we are searching for and is willing to rent to a group like ours. But we are excited to announce that we have found a wonderful executive office suite, centrally located in Santa Ana! This space will have all the amenities we knew were vital for this project, including showers, a kitchen and a meeting room. We will continue to search for a home based location, but are so excited for all that this location will offer for phase ...
Read MoreSUFK - OC's 2018 Holiday Party Recap
December 21 2018
The room was packed. Hundreds of kids, young adults, mentors and volunteers involved with StandUp For Kids smiled and laughed together as they filled the room and got in line to get lunch. Everyone piled their plates with ham, turkey, stuffing, green beans, bread, potatoes and all the other delicious foods. Once stomachs were full, the festivities began. The day started with the thrift store – a big room filled with donated clothes, shoes, home goods and hygiene products. The kids poured in the room and started filling their bags with the items they needed. They squealed with joy as they showed each other their great finds. Next, we heard from kids of all different age groups from ...
Read MoreAnna's Story - Orange County
November 27 2018
Anna was born in Mexico and brought to the United States by her parents when she was six-years-old. She has no other home, but is now seeing progress in her efforts toward recovery, helping others, and formalizing her U.S. citizenship. “After my parents brought me, my brother and my sister here, we lived on the low-income side of town. I always did poorly in school, struggling with every subject. I started smoking weed at 12, and shortly after that I started drinking. Both of my parents worked constantly and never noticed. At 16, my drug use progressed, and after trying meth things went downhill fast. My parents kicked me out of the house. “At that point I realized I needed to ...
Read MoreOrange County's Veteran Of The Year 2018
November 20 2018
We are so proud to announce that StandUp for Kids - Orange County’s Director of Operations Carlia Oldfather has been recognized by the City of Mission Viejo for her outstanding efforts in the community. The Veterans of the Year award celebrates one male and female resident veteran within Mission Viejo for their community service.Serving as a Sergeant in the Army, Carlia was regularly recognized for her efforts as a Signals Intelligence Analyst. Carlia is also a mother of four, and since her military career she’s gone on to help the neediest in our communities; volunteering at StandUp For Kids, as well as the local Mission Viejo Kiwanis chapter and Boys and Girls ...
Read MoreCommunities Leading By Example
November 9 2018
By Ryan Kincaid As election season has come and gone, we often find ourselves wondering, “What’s next?” In the case of StandUp For Kids, a very important proposition was passed this past Tuesday. Our mission is well documented; we strive to prevent youth homelessness. However, we certainly can’t do it alone. This is why dedicated support systems are imperative to our organization and its mission. In addition to our valued donors, we also often need a little additional help from the state legislature. In last week’s election, California’s Proposition 2 was passed with a heavy majority. Proposition 2 is essentially a continuation of 2016’s Proposition ...
Read MoreA Season For Giving Thanks - Orange County
October 30 2018
By Ryan Kincaid Despite these 80-degree temperatures in Southern California, there’s no denying that the autumn season is upon us. Autumn brings a lot to celebrate: cooler weather, beautiful scenery, Halloween and furthermore, Thanksgiving. There’s certainly a lot to be excited about at this time of year. However, for us here at StandUp For Kids, it’s about so much more than being able to wear warmer clothes and seeing the pretty-colored leaves. Here are some of the things we have going on this Fall: Dia de los Muertos - First on the agenda, Anaheim site coordinator Denisze Zermeno will be teaching the children about the significance of Dia de los Muertos and its relation ...
Read MoreOC Student Spotlight - Melany Sanchez
October 30 2018
By Ryan Kincaid For many students, after-school programs are a time to receive assistance with their studies. For others, it’s an opportunity to see their friends past 3 p.m. Finding the perfect balance, however, is what makes these programs most beneficial and enjoyable for the children. Despite the fact that eighth-grader, Melany Sanchez, is practically counting down the days until the end of the school year, she understands that these experiences are priceless and that StandUp For Kids is here with her for every step towards achieving her dreams. “I’d like to be a computer programmer,” exclaimed Melany without hesitation when we asked her what career she’d ...
Read MoreHope With A Voice
September 19 2018
By Ryan Kincaid In recent years, Orange County’s homelessness problem has been discussed and reviewed often, and the general consensus has been that the homeless population is increasing. However, the method by which these numbers are determined seems rather convoluted yet vague. In an interview conducted by Nick Gerda, a reporter for Voice of OC with Susan Price, Orange County homeless services coordinator, Price mentions how, “The methodology that was used in 2017, ’15 and ’13…was an extrapolation.” The article goes on to mention that the upcoming 2019 count will provide more precise numbers, information regarding ...
Read MoreJoin us at Eddy V’s Wildfish in Newport Beach on October 25
September 17 2018
Mark your calendars! The next StandUp For Kids - Orange County event is coming up at Thursday, October 25th. From 6-8 pm, you’ll enjoy live music, appetizers and drinks, plus inspiration from our guest speaker. Bring your whole team to network with other local business leaders who care about helping their community. You’ll have the opportunity to mingle with other like-minded people while supporting a very worthy cause that needs your help more than ever. In our recent blog article, we shared how tuition hikes at local colleges has led to more students becoming homeless. At Saddleback College alone last year, 1,100 students were identified as homeless, with about 200 of those ...
Read MoreOrange County Entrepreneur Program
August 28 2018
Building Future Business Owners While StandUp For Kids is always busy at work doing street outreach, mentoring, and helping to secure housing and employment for our youth, one really impactful and thriving program you may not be aware of is our entrepreneur program. As part of our vision to end the cycle of youth homelessness, preparing at-risk youth for successful careers and self-sufficiency after high school and college is a huge part of what we do. For about 14 weeks, kids in the program come after school and spend 90 minutes learning about how to start their own business. They get a chance to speak with successful business owners, learn the basics involved in becoming an entrepreneur, ...
Read MoreThe Cost of an Education: Homeless College Students
August 12 2018
It’s the homeless issue we perhaps talk about least. Students.By Zack Johnston What was once a humorous stereotype has become a stark reality for many young people trying to create a positive change for their futures. The starving college student archetype is no laughing matter, as thousands of students across the country struggle with housing and food insecurity. One in ten California State University students experienced some form of homelessness in 2017, according to a study conducted by the university system. While some of us had the financial support of our parents to help us get through college, others are struggling to cover the costs on their own while affording food and a ...
Read MoreStandUp For Kids Staff Spotlight
July 16 2018
Meet Our Staff: Denisze Zermeno By: Zack Johnston One of StandUp For Kids' newest staff members in Orange County, California is quickly on her way to becoming one of its most valued. Denisze Zermeno is the site coordinator for the Anaheim mentoring and S.T.E.M. programs. She started that position in June after a four-month mentoring internship in Huntington Beach. Her volunteering experience includes other non-profits and working with elementary and preschool students, but working with StandUp For Kids has offered her something more. When she was first getting started, she worked closely with another StandUp mentor, Brittany, who showed her things like conducting intakes and street ...
Read MoreThe Battle for L.A.'s Plan to End Homelessness
July 11 2018
The battle for L.A.'s plan to end homelessness By Zack Johnston It’s the city versus its citizens. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and other city officials are on a mission to end the growing homeless crisis, but some L.A. residents disapprove of how that mission is being carried out. Earlier this year Mayor Garcetti introduced his Bridge Home initiative, a comprehensive plan to build an emergency shelter in all 15 city council districts. The mayor’s 2018-19 budget allocates $20 million to construct these shelters, and the plan includes additional sanitation services that will go toward areas near the new shelters. In a unanimous vote on June 29, the L.A. City Council ...
Read More3 Key Homelessness Updates in the U.S. This Week
June 20 2018
By Zack Johnston The Western United States is experiencing some of the worst homelessness in decades, and we don’t seem to be finding a solution anytime soon. But thanks to the recent work of dedicated organizations and some passionate legislators, more and more people will get the help they need to end the cycle of poverty and homelessness. Homeless job training programs A London-based organization that supplies job training and employment is making its way to the U.S. Change Please is a startup that trains homeless individuals as baristas and employs them at their mobile and permanent coffee shops, according to the Huffington Post. Change Please was recently awarded $350,000 from ...
Read MoreT’keyah's Story - Orange County
June 14 2018
Holding on to Hope and the Power of Positivity By T’keyah Edwards I am a girl. A girl with a very creative imagination. One that I bring to life. I believe that life is what you make it. The world is filled with so many beautiful places and people that are taken for granted. At the beginning of this year I was at rock bottom. Then I came across the law of attraction from a friend of mine. I realized that I could change my perspective on how I view situations in my life, so I started doing so. I started meditating and saying positive affirmations in my head. In no time I started attracting wonderful people who completely changed me. That’s how StandUp For Kids came into my ...
Read MoreOrange County 2018 Gala Recap
May 29 2018
The volunteers lined the entrance, ready to greet the 200+ guests. The room was sparkling with silky tablecloths, big beautiful centerpieces with purple hydrangeas, and strings of lights crossing the ceiling. Then it started. Hundreds of supporters, volunteers and the youth helped by StandUp For Kids filled the space with laughter and excitement for the evenings events. People in beautiful dresses and sharp suits began finding their seats and chattering about which silent auction items they had their eye on. The magician worked the room making things disappear and reappear to the shock and delight of the onlookers. Photo: Chuck Jones Center for Creativity The night continued with a ...
Read MoreJCPenney Comes Together to StandUp For Kids
April 12 2018
The JCPenney of Westminster came together to help us give five of our kids the opportunity to get the everyday necessities they need. Lori, the JCPenney general manager, loved our mission and received a $1,000 grant from corporate to help our kids. We honored T’keyah, Don, Tyler, Shea and Alyssa from our Orange County chapter and each of them were given $200 to shop for what they need while trying to get back on their feet. “It means the world to me that people are so compassionate that they can give back to the world because there are not a lot of people who are this helpful” – T’keyah, StandUp For Kids - Orange County Each of them ...
Read MoreFive Reasons to Attend SUFK - Orange County's Spring Gala
April 9 2018
Living here in Orange County, it’s easy to get distracted by the beautiful beaches, sports cars and wealth that is in abundance in sunny southern California, but the ever-increasing cost of living makes it very challenging for many of our residents to survive. According to the Orange County Department of Education, there are over 27,000 homeless students enrolled in a K-12 Orange County school. On top of that, there are additional homeless youth who aren’t in school and young adults who, in many cases, aged out of foster care. StandUp For Kids strives to end the cycle of youth homelessness by building communities that provide a support system and access to resources that ...
Read MoreSarah's Story: A Volunteer That's Been There
March 15 2018
I missed school a lot from a young age. When I was in elementary school, I remember missing over a year of school because my family was dealing with a huge tragedy and homelessness. My mom raised me by herself and there was never a stable place for us. She tried her best to stay away from drugs and get whatever money she could so we could eat and have a place to stay whether it would be at her friends or a hotel. I remember us staying at her friend’s house sharing the couch for about a year, living in a cheap hotel and sometimes having to sleep in the car. Meet Sarah, a StandUp For Kids Volunteer It seemed so normal to me that this was my life. At the same time, it was ...
Read MoreT’keyah’s Story: A New Beginning
February 19 2018
T’keyah is a hard-working bubbly spirit whose life fell off track as she was trying to get to a better place. At 24-years-old she found herself sleeping on the floor of an apartment until StandUp For Kids came along. Moving to Newport Beach from Bakersfield, T’keyah was looking to get out of her hometown for better opportunities by going to live with her friend. A couple months later, she found herself cleaning and taking care of a two-bedroom apartment with over six people living in it, with her friend’s mom expecting her to pay rent without an actual place to sleep. After hearing about StandUp for Kids from a coworker, T’keyah felt hopeful she could get to a ...
Read MoreNumber of Homeless Students in Orange County for 2016-17
January 26 2018
There are over 27,000 homeless students (grades K-12) in our Orange County schools. Please keep in mind that these numbers do not include: - Students that do not identify due to shame and/or fear, - Youth that are not in school due to their circumstances, - Young adults that are ages 18-25.
Read MoreLook What We Did Together in 2017
January 25 2018
A year of highlights from Eddy Ameen, PhD, National Board Chair Your support and involvement in our mission has helped make 2017 a standout year for StandUp For Kids. Our central responsibility is to our nation’s young people faced with homelessness, whether temporary or longer term. No matter the circumstances that got them there. No matter the work that needs to be done to help them transition them into safe, stable chapters of their lives. We are deeply humbled by this responsibility, and held fiercely to it through the political tumult of 2017. When some of our youth felt unwelcome, we stood taller to welcome them. In 2017, we worked with over 2,200 youth for the first ...
Read MoreOrange County's 2017 Annual Report
January 23 2018
Click the cover below to read our 2017 Annual Report.
Read MoreThanks for a Great 2017, Orange County!
January 10 2018
Thank you for making 2017 yet another amazing year! You’ll be so proud of all we’ve accomplished together. Because you care, here are some other major accomplishments from 2017 in our Orange County program: Supported over 350 un-duplicated youth Housed 105 un-duplicated youth Mentored 182 youth and young adults Provided nearly 3,000 instances of support Provided more than 2,500 meals Had a 39% increase in number of youth served 2017 vs. 2016 Logged more than 6,200 hours serving our children! Provided services 5 nights a week Had 2 Outreach Centers Open 4 nights a week Formalized partnerships with CASA Youth Shelter, and HB Youth Shelter Orange County's ...
Read MoreHow Brandon Sees It
November 27 2017
Brandon’s Story: In His Words I’m just a normal guy who grew up in Santa Ana and just wanted to work to earn my way through life. It’s funny because at first, I wanted to prove to everyone that I could live on my own and I did. I was making my own money, living at my own place, and doing whatever I wanted. A typical day looked like this… I would wake up and go to work. After work, I’d buy alcohol, use drugs, and spend time with my friends, just doing stupid stuff. One day I woke up and didn’t like who I had become. I didn’t have a permanent place to stay anymore and had burnt all the bridges with my family. So I ...
Read MoreWhy Alejandra Loves StandUp For Kids
September 21 2017
"They are here to help with our personal needs, school needs, and to guide us when we have don't have anybody on our side."
Read MoreMeet Alejandra and Beto
August 22 2017
Alejandra, age 16, and Beto, age 15, are brother and sister who both attend weekly meetings at our Anaheim Outreach Center. The two of them were born in Mexico and grew up in Anaheim, CA. They left Mexico when Alejandra was 2 years old and Beto was 1. Currently, they live with their mom, dad, younger brother, and another family in a small apartment in Anaheim. Alejandra has been coming to the center since 2011. During that time, her father had just been deported back to Mexico and she was struggling both emotionally and academically due to issues in her home. She was responsible for most of the chores in her house, cooking for her siblings, and making sure they got to school. Going to the ...
Read MoreGreenlight Sets Students Up for Success
August 21 2017
By Megan Ayala A founder and CEO of a local IT company hopes to raise funds to deliver 50 new computers to the StandUp For Kids - Orange County outreach center in Anaheim, California. Jason Makevich of Greenlight Information Services, LLC, explained in his promotional video, “Schools are depending on web based content for much of their curriculum." To learn and succeed, it is fundamental that kids have regular access to a computer and to high-speed internet. Greenlight Information Systems, through Makevich's vision, has dedicated time and commitment to bringing numerous computers and services to our youth at the Anaheim center. It is Jason's passion for the project that has ...
Read MoreMeet Quis
July 17 2017
Quis, 21 years old, grew up in Blythe, CA. He says, “Where I’m from, people are dying left and right.” His mother was a gang member and Quis ended up following in her footsteps because he said they looked out for him and protected him more than his own family did. This isn’t the life he wanted but it’s the life he was born into. Consequently, Quis ended up with severe substance abuse issues. He says that he realized he had a problem when he could not even make it into work without being under the influence. With the plan to stop using drugs and create a life for himself, Quis reached out to his cousin who encouraged him to leave Blythe and come ...
Read MoreCheck out the new StandUp For Kids PSA
April 12 2017
Many thanks to one of Orange County's talented volunteers for helping us improve the lives of all homeless and otherwise vulnerable young people, with special attention here to trafficked youth. Reality can be harsh, but programs like ours make a big difference.
Read MoreYoung Entrepreneur Academy Investor Panel Winner Named
April 11 2017
Young Entrepreneurs Seek Funding for Startups “Shark Tank Style” Jessica Cedillo accepting her award Irvine, CA (PRWEB) April 10, 2017 Jessica Cedillo, a 16-year-old student who attends Pacifica High School in Garden Grove won the top business award at the StandUp For Kids’ Young Entrepreneur (YEA!) Investor Panel. Not only does she receive $1,200 to launch her business but also she will be going to Rochester, New York on May 7 - 8 to compete amongst 26 YEA! participants from across the nation. Each participant proposed a business plan that included financial strategies, marketing plans, selling and general operations in front of a panel of investors that took place ...
Read MoreYoung Entrepreneurs Face A Mock Investor Panel
March 29 2017
Pictured are: Brian Montes (KEB Global Business Development and Strategy Management Consulting and Managing Partner, Co-Founder of Fluidity Partners & Committee Co-Chair, Business Attraction and Retention Committee at the Irvine Chamber of Commerce), Brian C. Andersen (Director of Business Development at First Class Connection), Jason Pfeiffer (Vice President - Relationship Manager at Bank of America), Daniel Han (Board of Directors, Executive Committee at the Irvine Chamber of Commerce & founder/owner of Agapay). Thank you so much to all of you for helping prepare our young entrepreneurs for their BIG DAY on April 6th, our very own Investor Panel ...
Read MoreMikaila's Story
March 20 2017
By: Savanna Clevenger StandUp For Kids is continuing to change the lives of the OC youth. For twenty two year old Mikaila, joining StandUp For Kids has truly changed her life. After joining the program and finding help and hope among her mentors, Mikaila says she is very happy to have found StandUp For Kids. After facing substance abuse issues, Mikaila was introduced to StandUp For Kids by a family friend, one of the mentors in the program. Mikaila says that she was introduced to drugs when she was only sixteen, and had it not been for StandUp For Kids, she may still be in the same place she started off. StandUp For Kids assisted Mikaila with getting into a ...
Read MoreHomeless In Orange County
February 28 2017
Homeless in Orange County from T V on Vimeo.A non-profit documentary about the unexpectedly harrowing experience of being a homeless youth in one of America's wealthiest counties.
Read MoreMeet Miguel and Roberta
February 28 2017
StandUp For Kids - Orange County continues to help make a difference for the homeless and at risk youth of Orange County through their Anaheim outreach center. At the outreach centers, kids are welcomed to come in after school to work on homework, play games, interact, and receive mentoring. Along with providing a safe space and warm meal for the kids, the StandUp For Kids Anaheim center also features two programs, the YEA! Program and the S.T.E.M. program. These programs invite kids to work on business projects, math and science, and help prepare them for their futures. Click here to read the full story
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