OPTIMIST YOUTH HOMES AND FAMILY SERVICES

Optimist Youth Homes and Family Services

Our grant for $23,495 provides a renovated backyard at the Mission Hills short-term residential home for boys, ages 15-18. Approximately 20 young men per year, living at the home, will have access to a new outdoor space including, a concrete patio with permanent shade structure, benches, landscape installation, grass, shrubs, irrigation system, and outdoor patio furniture. The young men at Mission Hills are wards of the juvenile court and are referred by DCFS and the probation department. While awaiting permanent placement, they come to Mission Hills with extensive histories of family dysfunction, poverty, and abuse. Our grant will create a peaceful, healing space for the youth to gather with mentors, volunteers, and family, and enjoy a respite from their struggles. With a welcoming space shielded from the intense sun, they will not only expand the mentorship program, but also provide a space that will help the youth “set a different tone.” In the words of one of the boys, “Sometimes you just need to go outside.”