Celebrating Success: A Roundup of Stories

In The News
One of the most powerful ways our community supports young people is by helping share their stories. Local media outlets help shine a light on the challenges youth face and the hope that comes from programs that support stability, mentorship, and opportunity.

Over the past several months, various Central Oregon publications have highlighted the work of J Bar J Youth Services and the young people whose lives are changing through our programs. These stories help raise awareness, celebrate youth success, and invite more community members to be part of the solution.

Here are a few recent stories featuring our programs and the youth we serve.


From Trauma to Triumph
Two young men who once experienced homelessness share how resilience—and support from a J Bar J youth shelter—helped change the course of their lives. Their stories, featured in The Source Weekly, show what’s possible when young people are given stability and support.
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Direct Support Helping Youth Find Housing
A statewide pilot program providing direct financial support to young adults experiencing homelessness is already showing promising results. Central Oregon Daily explored how flexible support and case management can help youth move from crisis toward stability and independence.
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Community Support During Winter Weather
When temperatures drop, the need for safe shelter rises quickly. Central Oregon Daily recently covered how our street outreach program responds during winter cold snaps – and how community donations help ensure young people have a warm, safe place to stay.
Read the full article →

Community Connections That Change Lives
What does it take to help a young person rewrite their future? Bend Magazine recently highlighted the network of J Bar J programs – from Big Brothers Big Sisters mentorship to housing and residential support – that help youth build confidence, stability, and brighter futures.
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Stories like these help raise awareness about the realities facing young people in our community and the impact that compassionate support can make. We are grateful to the journalists and publications who help amplify these voices—and to the many community members who stand with us in helping youth build safe, stable futures.