Affected Youth:By the Numbers.
In 2021, The California Department of Education Data Reporting Office showed 2,200 children in foster care were enrolled in schools in San Diego County, ages K-12. According to San Diego Youth Services, Federal statistics show that In 2021, California remains the state with the highest population of people experiencing homelessness overall, and the highest number of unaccompanied homeless youth. More than 1,500 youth are among the homeless in San Diego County.
Our solutionThe Problems Relationships Can Solve.
Young people age out of foster care at the age of 18 with little support and few skills, putting them at risk for a host of negative outcomes, including homelessness. According to research done by the University of Chicago, by age 26, 36% of young people who age out of foster care experience homelessness and face enormous challenges in achieving housing stability.
Factors that help prevent homelessness include access to transitional housing programs, helping them build financial stability before they leave foster care, and training and support to develop the skills they need to live independently. Prevention is key.
At Xtreme Youth, we offer long-term mentoring, and life skills training for youth in foster care that prepares them to be self-sufficient in adulthood and avoid negative outcomes like homelessness, joblessness, and poor decision making. Our mentors provide wisdom, encouragement, guidance, and strength to help them recognize their dreams and achieve their goals. When it comes to improving outcomes for youth, long-term, committed relationships make all the difference.
How We Can HelpA Mentor's Impact.
Research by The National Mentoring Resource Center shows that, over time, youth in foster care who experienced positive relationships with mentors had altered working models of relationships – enabling them to form healthy relationships and strengthen resiliency. Mentoring is also crucial in curbing recidivism.
Key Statistics for At-Risk Youth
55%
More at-risk youth enroll in college with mentors
78%
Volunteer regularly
90%
Nearly 90% want to become mentors themselves
130%
Of at-risk youth who had mentors end up in leadership positions