Cascade Youth & Family Center (CYFC) received a crisis referral call from a family in Bend. ‘Ashley’ was heading in a dangerous direction, and the family needed help. Ashley had run away from home several times, she was on probation, and falling behind in school credits. The family had explosive parent – youth conflicts, further deteriorating trust on both sides. To give her and her family space to de-escalate their crisis, Ashley entered our emergency shelter program at CYFC where she was able to accomplish several things.
Ashley began working hard to complete her community service and get off probation. She began catching up on school credits and reengaged in school, excelling in her academics. Ashley also got a part time job. She became a resident of Living Options For Teens (LOFT), our longer-term transitional living shelter which provides a stable home for youth and was a better option for Ashley during this time. While living at the LOFT, Ashley became involved with various services from community partners such as mental health services, local dental and vision services, as well starting the process to be matched with a mentor through our Big Brothers Big Sisters program.
During her stay, Ashley and her family participated in multiple family mediations and ultimately, she was able to go home to a safe environment. She took with her new coping skills such as boundary setting, communicating clearly with family members, emotional regulation and de-escalation skills. Ashley had learned to advocate for herself. Her family was also equipped with better communication tools and resources to turn to, including a team of case workers who will continue to be available to support the family. Ashley is now on track to graduate! She has prioritized ways to develop herself, and, hopes to go college with her sights on becoming a social worker.