A young person in our program who prefers to be simply called June recently celebrated some big milestones – earning their driver’s license, buying a used car, and settling into a place of their own. For June, those steps represent more than convenience; they mark the independence and stability they’ve worked hard to achieve.
When June first came to Cascade Youth & Family Center’s LOFT program, they were looking for a safe place to land. They’d been caring for a grandfather with dementia when a family conflict left them without a home. Despite the upheaval, June kept showing up – to school, to therapy, to every opportunity to move forward.
With support from staff at the LOFT, they found a job at Fred Meyer and began saving for the future. In time, they transitioned to CYFC’s supportive housing, where case managers help young people build life skills and confidence as they work toward independence. It’s here that June has found both stability and community – people who listen, guide, and believe in their potential.
Now, June is preparing to start college at COCC this winter. Their goal is to come full circle: to return one day as a resident monitor and eventually a case manager, helping other youth the way J Bar J helped them. “I want to inspire others and give hope when people feel down,” they said.
When asked what message they’d share with the community, June’s words were simple and full of gratitude: “I love you for being such a nice, open, and inviting community, allowing people to prosper. I’m very grateful for your role in my journey.”
Because of your support, young people like June are finding their footing – building the confidence, skills, and independence to create the future they choose.