When Kyle first arrived to the shelter he was reserved and kept to himself. His stay in the Cascade Youth and Family Center’s (CYFC) emergency shelter was an escape from family conflict at home. He had been working with our crisis intervention and family mediation, a part of CYFC’s Basic Center Program, and then applied to become a resident of our longer-term transitional living program, Living Options For Teens (LOFT).
Once Kyle settled in, he started to relax and come out of his shell. He became more confident in himself and created connections with other youth that helped him express himself. Living at the LOFT gave him a stable environment that allowed him to focus and attend school consistently. Kyle brought his grades up and even received an award for Junior Student of the Month in December! Kyle was so proud of this award, and in that moment, he realized other people were seeing the changes in him too.
The CYFC staff assisted Kyle in creating positive connections in the community. He was connected with a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters, which furthered Kyle’s growth in relationships. Other youth began looking to Kyle as a role model for the LOFT program and Kyle was voted onto the Youth Advisory Council. This role encouraged him to continue advocating for himself and other youth, which in turn assisted the program’s development.
During his stay with us, Kyle’s relationship with his parents healed and flourished. Multiple times, he told us that his relationship with his parents was the best it had ever been and then, Kyle was able to safely return home. He takes with him the ability to advocate for himself, communicate clearly with his family and peers and establish healthy boundaries.
One of Kyle’s favorite coping skills he learned while at the LOFT was cooking. He is looking forward to taking a culinary class at school next semester to expand upon his skills.
Kyle’s father thanked the LOFT for their support. Seeing Kyle’s most recent report card, his father shared, the changes he has seen in Kyle are incredible.
We are happy for Kyle and his family, and proud of everything he has accomplished.