Optimist Youth Homes and Family Services

Join us every Tuesday at 6:30 pm for Bible Study at the LOLA Clubhouse! 🌟 This weekly gathering is more than just a time for reflection—it’s a space for youth to connect, explore their faith, and find encouragement on their journey. No matter where you are spiritually, come be part of a community that nurtures hope, builds resilience, and creates lasting connections. Food, drinks, and fellowship await! Visit oyhfs.org/LOLA for more details.

Explore the new LOLA Clubhouse, a vibrant space created by youth, for youth. This welcoming environment provides essential support for teens facing challenges, offering: 👉 Skill-Building Workshops: Participate in workshops focused on advocacy, career exploration, arts and crafts, and more, designed to foster personal growth and self-confidence. 👉 Creative Expression: Engage with our interactive art wall, where youth can share their creativity and draw inspiration from each other. 👉 Career Development: Access our computer lab to build resumes and explore career paths, empowering teens to plan for their futures. 👉 Wellness Activities: Utilize our dedicated fitness room for self-care, helping teens recharge and prioritize their mental health. At Optimist, we’re dedicated to equipping young people with the resources and support they need to thrive. Discover how you can get involved and stay updated on our upcoming events by visiting oyhfs.org/lola.

Ever wondered what it’s like to transition from foster care into independent living? Studies show that up to 46% of foster youth experience homelessness at least once by age 26. At Optimist, we are committed to curbing this statistic by offering a nurturing environment and essential resources. Our Transitional Living Services (TLS) program provides crucial support for youth aged 18 to 20, helping them navigate this critical phase of life. From private rooms and daily meals that create a supportive environment to career readiness workshops and mentorship opportunities that build essential life skills, our program empowers young adults to thrive and successfully navigate their transition to independence. Explore the impact we make and take a virtual tour of our TLS program at oyhfs.org/TLS. Join us in making a difference today!

Join us on Monday, Oct 21 @ 6:30 PM at the new LOLA Clubhouse for a relaxing and creative art workshop, open to youth ages 18-25! Led by experienced Art Therapist Karin, you'll explore the calming practice of Mandala making to help ground and de-stress your nervous system. No art skills needed—just bring yourself! Snacks and beverages will be provided. RSVP today and enjoy an evening of creativity, self-expression, and healing! 🌟 Please RSVP to jreneaud@oyhfs.org.

Attention all youth ages 18-25! 🎃 You're invited to a Pumpkin Party on Saturday, October 19 for an afternoon of creativity and fall vibes. Come decorate pumpkins and sip on hot cocoa at 6957 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, from 4:00-6:00 PM. Hosted by the Junior League of Los Angeles, this is the perfect way to celebrate the season—don’t miss it! Space is limited, so RSVP today at jreneaud@oyhfs.org. 🌟

We’re excited to announce that we’ve been awarded a $50,000 grant from QueensCare Charitable Division! This support will directly strengthen our provision of vital mental health services for youth in our programs for victims of human trafficking and supportive housing for transition-age youth, helping those with the most critical needs. We’re grateful for this new partnership with QueensCare, whose commitment to improving health access for low-income communities in Los Angeles supports our mission to empower both at-risk youth and their families. Together, we’re building a brighter future. 🌟

Join us for the #FAFSA Information Workshop on October 15, 2024, from 5:00-6:30 PM! Whether attending in person or virtually, we'll walk you through every step of the FAFSA process. 📍 Location: Optimist Foster Family Agency, 520 W. Palmdale Blvd., Ste I, Palmdale, CA 93551 🔗 Be sure to RSVP by scanning the QR code on the flyer to secure your spot. Space is limited, so don’t wait!

The L.O.L.A. Clubhouse Open House was a fantastic success, highlighting the vital role that clubhouses play in supporting youth facing mental health challenges. Clubhouses provide a safe, inclusive space where members can connect, build relationships, and access mental health resources, which can significantly impact their recovery and well-being. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible staff, volunteers, and community partners for attending and supporting this event. Special thanks to Elsa Juarez and Oscar Gonzales from Our Third Place (Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services), Brenda Lynch and Melissa Spolar from Coffee With A Cause, Irene Holguin from Arroyo Vista Family Health Center, Morgan Chitty from PLUS ME Project, Kate Teague from California Youth Connection, Pastor Victor from The Universal Church in Eagle Rock, Street Poets Inc., Assistant Regional Administrator Elia S. Godinez from DCFS, and peer mentors Christopher Hendrix and Cynthia Meza from the Near-Peer Mentorship Program for your invaluable contributions. Your commitment to the community makes all the difference in our work! #ClubhouseInternational

Staff at our Pacific Lodge campus enjoyed some well-deserved time cooling off with sweet treats at our ice cream social! A great afternoon of connection and fun with co-workers, complete with a table full of delicious flavors. Can you spot your favorite? 🍦🌟

A new kind of support is here—come celebrate at the L.O.L.A. Clubhouse open house! 🎉 Built for youth, by youth, this welcoming community space is designed for youth with serious mental illness, offering connection and resources in a non-clinical setting. 📅 Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024 ⏰ 10 AM - 3 PM Drop by to meet the team, enjoy light refreshments, and explore an interactive art project as we come together to shape a future filled with hope and possibility! For further information, please visit oyhfs.org/lola.