A New Leaf

Raise awareness for survivors across the Valley by attending the Pinal County Domestic Violence Awareness Walk this weekend!

Recent research reveals that 68% of youth express an interest in financial literacy courses, but only 31% reported having access to them in their schools. In today's complex financial landscape, empowering our youth with the knowledge to navigate their economic futures is more critical than ever. The research conducted by Junior Achievement and Big Village highlights the importance of advocating for increased financial literacy in our communities. At A New Leaf, we recognize the immense value of financial literacy as a foundational skill that can significantly influence a young person’s ability to achieve economic security and independence. That’s why we are committed to integrating quality financial literacy programming into our services, ensuring that the next generation is not only prepared to manage their finances but also equipped to thrive. By investing in comprehensive financial education, we are providing young individuals with the tools they need to make informed decisions, from budgeting and saving to understanding credit and investment basics. This initiative not only supports individual growth but also contributes to the overall economic health of our community. As we continue to advocate for expanded access to financial literacy programs, we invite our community members and partners to join us in this critical effort. Together, we can create a future where every young person has the knowledge and skills to navigate the financial challenges of adulthood with confidence. https://lnkd.in/gpNhWBpf

We are immensely grateful to 12News | KPNX-TV, Caribe Devine, and Mark Curtis for their exceptional coverage of the groundbreaking ceremony at A New Leaf's East Valley Men's Center. This event marked a significant milestone in our mission to enhance support for men experiencing homelessness in our community. The addition of new housing units at the center promises to offer more than just 30 new places to live. These facilities are designed to provide a foundation for stability, recovery, and new beginnings, giving our residents the support needed to rebuild their lives and step confidently towards self-sufficiency and independence. We deeply appreciate the support from local council members, community leaders, and board members who participated in this landmark event. Your commitment is crucial in driving positive change and offering hope to those in need. Thank you, 12 News, for sharing this important story with the community. This coverage helps spotlight the critical developments and the collective efforts to transform lives and provide safe, stable environments for those we serve.

“I was an investigator at the Department of Child Safety for seven years. I've removed a lot of children from foster homes and I have placed a lot of children in foster homes. It’s a tough job. I’ve literally spent the night in my office with multiple children because there weren't any foster homes to take them to. That’s where my passion to become a foster parent started, I just saw the need so clearly.” “There was a tragic need for foster parents and these adorable kids needed somewhere to go. And I was ready, I wanted to have kids, I wanted to start a family. So I got licensed to foster through A New Leaf and started building my family.” “I always knew that keeping siblings together was important to me, so when I came upon Logan, Anthony and Noah, I knew they were perfect for me. I didn't want these three beautiful boys to be separated or sent to different homes - a lot of foster families only wanted one or two of them.” “It’s heart-breaking that so many siblings are scattered through the system. Can you imagine being separated from everyone you loved? I have a very strong relationship with my siblings, so I just couldn’t let that happen to my boys. I decided to take all three.” “They’re incredible kids, but it’s still not easy to suddenly be a single mom of three right? That’s where A New Leaf helped me so much. I think you guys have awesome events. I get to meet other foster parents and share tips, I get a little extra help to provide for the kids, and I get the boost in confidence I need as a new parent.” “I’ve been lucky enough to adopt them and give them a permanent home. They’re my kids and every day is a new adventure. These children have given so much depth and meaning to my life, and I am just so thankful to be their mom.”

Native American children are disproportionately represented in the foster care system, facing a critical shortage of Native American foster homes. This disparity has driven Manuel and her husband, Tecumseh, an enrolled member of the Gila River Indian Community, to become licensed foster parents and advocates since 2012. Their organization, Three Precious Miracles, not only provides essential resources like clothing and educational support but also fosters a deep connection to Native American culture. For youth like 17-year-old Jaycob, who was adopted into a non-Native home, Three Precious Miracles offers a vital link to his roots and identity. Jaycob's story highlights the profound impact of understanding one's heritage, as he expresses his motivation to contribute positively to his community and help others navigate their cultural identity. Manuel’s vision for her organization is clear: "I want kids to come and feel like their sense of identity and culture is right there. I really want all these kids to know that they’ll always be accepted, they’ll be loved, and know where they come from.” This message of acceptance and cultural pride is a beacon of hope and support, ensuring that Native American youth have the resources and community they need to thrive. At A New Leaf, we celebrate and support the crucial work of organizations like Three Precious Miracles that make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families. https://lnkd.in/emesmwJx

Amazon - KRB9 recently hosted a donation drive for A New Leaf. Their an organization dedicated to assisting individuals and families with domestic violence, shelter, finances, and various other crucial services. #CommunitySupport #GivingBack #Amazon

We are deeply saddened to report that Aliccia Grant, aged 37, tragically lost her life in what the Phoenix Police Department has identified as a deadly domestic violence incident. Her husband, Stephen Dennis, aged 35, has been arrested and charged for second degree murder. This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of addressing domestic violence comprehensively and proactively. At A New Leaf, we are dedicated to providing support and resources to those affected by domestic violence, offering a safe space and the necessary assistance to help survivors rebuild their lives and escape the cycle of abuse. Our hearts go out to all who knew and loved Aliccia. In her memory, we reaffirm our commitment to fighting domestic violence and supporting our community in these challenging times. We urge anyone experiencing or witnessing domestic violence to reach out for help. Together, we can work towards a future where such tragedies are a thing of the past. https://lnkd.in/gMQrFFFM

When Keyton arrived at A New Leaf’s East Valley Men’s Center, he wasn’t sure anyone could help him anymore. “I didn’t feel I had any options anymore. I reached out again and again, but no one was there to help me. So I lost hope and gave up in a lot of ways.” Keyton had been released from prison on a non-violent offense and spent over six months homeless on the streets, trying to find a job and housing. But as a felon, he was not able to even apply for most opportunities. Keyton felt his mistakes had shut the door on his future. But everything changed when Keyton finally got off the streets and was admitted to A New Leaf’s East Valley Men’s Center. For the first time in six months, Keyton had a bed in which to sleep, food to eat, and a support system around him. Soon after , Keyton was assigned a dedicated case manager, Mike, who was prepared to create a plan to get Keyton on his feet, get him access to much-needed services, and address his most serious challenges to stability. After a brief psychological evaluation, Mike found that Keyton read at a 3rd grade level, wrote at a 2nd grade level, and performed math at a 3rd grade level. Recognizing these results as serious developmental delays, Mike was shocked to find that no one had ever tested Keyton. Mike filed paperwork with the State of Arizona, and shortly after Keyton was given access to much-needed resources for developmentally challenged adults. He would now be able to get assistance with finding a job, practicing life skills, processing emotions, and more. This was life-changing for Keyton, who had always struggled with understanding how to budget, manage his time, and take care of himself. He would now have consistent support to ensure his stability and happiness. Mike found a room to rent in Phoenix for developmentally delayed adults that charged only $480 a month, with all the utilities paid. With help from Mike and other services, Keyton has been able to stay employed, housed, and stable.

A heartfelt thank you to 12News | KPNX-TV for their fantastic coverage of the Arizona Diamondbacks' generous donation to A New Leaf! We are so incredibly grateful for the Arizona Diamondbacks’ donation of a brand new box truck, which will play a crucial role in transporting essential supplies to our donation center. This truck will enable us to efficiently deliver resources to programs across the Valley, supporting families and individuals in need. The Diamondbacks didn’t stop there; they also contributed a significant amount of essential supplies, further helping to stock our shelves and ensure that those we serve have access to the necessities that aid in their journey towards stability and independence. We are thankful to both the Arizona Diamondbacks for their continued support and to 12 News for highlighting this act of generosity. Partnerships like these are vital in our mission, and the impact of this donation will resonate throughout our community.

Happy Navaratri! This vibrant festival spans nine nights from Oct. 3 - Oct. 12th, celebrating the divine feminine and honoring the goddess Durga in her many forms. Each day represents an incarnation of the goddess, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the importance of strength, devotion, and resilience. Navaratri is not just a time for celebration; it’s a profound expression of cultural heritage and community spirit. Through dance, music, and prayer, families and friends come together to foster unity, joy, and reflection. This festival serves as a reminder of the power within each of us to overcome challenges and embrace positivity. Let’s celebrate the richness of our traditions and the strength of our communities during this beautiful festival!