YNN is Making a Splash This Summer!
We’ve got lots of program updates in this issue! From traveling the state to drop off care packages to launching our very own podcast, YNN has been busy making sure that young people are entering the summer season empowered and well-connected.
YNN is Making a Splash This Summer!
We’ve got lots of program updates in this issue! From traveling the state to drop off care packages to launching our very own podcast, YNN has been busy making sure that young people are entering the summer season empowered and well-connected.
Program Updates
What's New with YNN?
We launched a podcast!
We are THRILLED to share our podcast, Care to Conquer, with you! The podcast features interviews led by the young adults serving on our Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC). We are so proud of them for taking charge of this project and creating a final product that is so impactful. Way to go, YAAC!
In Episode One, Raven, Nevaeh, and Keeton share their personal journeys through foster care and their impactful advocacy work on the OHIO Youth Advisory Board (OHIO YAB) and Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC). They were joined by YNN Program Manager Arlene Jones, who brings a wealth of experience and compassion to supporting young individuals within the foster care system. Arlene reflects on the fulfilling aspects of guiding and supporting young minds while navigating self-care amidst challenging circumstances.
Listen to Episode One now, and subscribe to make sure you never miss an installment! You’ll gain insights on forging a meaningful career in this field, the profound importance of seeking support, and the impact of staying grounded in the present moment, with the hopes of fostering positive change and empowerment within the foster care community.
Days of Service - Cleveland & Cincinnati
YNN recently expanded its Day of Service events to Cincinnati and Cleveland, following the success of our spring Day of Service in Columbus.
The goal remained to connect with local organizations and provide practical swag bags for young people. Each care package included essential items like a book bag, cozy blanket, winter beanie, and portable battery charger. Despite weather challenges in Cincinnati, we still managed to distribute the bags and spread the word virtually.
In Cincinnati, we connected with the following organizations:
- National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP)
- Specialized Alternatives for Families and Youth (SAFY)
- Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio
- Cincinnati Job Corps
- Lighthouse Youth Services
In Cleveland, our team engaged with:
- A Place 4 Me
- EDEN, Inc.
- Ohio Means Jobs Youth Resource Center
- Cleveland Christian Community Home
YNN Program Manager Arlene Jones with Wykete Brown
at the Cincinnati Job Corps
The YNN team sharing swag bags with the team at Cleveland’s A Place 4 Me Collaborative.
We received wonderful feedback from the community about our presence and mission, and we are grateful that we got to connect with so many folks. These initiatives were a resounding success, underscoring our commitment to making a difference in Ohio's youth. Stay tuned for more updates and future events!
YNN offers many opportunities for your organization to get involved! You can request marketing materials (at no cost to you) or even bring our team to present YNN's mission and services to your staff or community. We are eager to collaborate with other community organizations to best serve youth and young adults in Ohio.
Wellness Fair with Peach Tree Advocacy
The YNN team got to participate in Blossom With Peach Tree, a wellness fair in Cincinnati. Blossom with Peach Tree promotes health & wellness in all aspects of life. Our team was on-site to spread the word about our customized approach to compiling resources, accessing funding, and finding support.
We loved meeting so many young people, sharing stories, and making powerful connections to propel them towards success and independence.
About Peach Tree Advocacy:
Peach Tree Advocacy is committed to assisting young adult women transition fully into adulthood by providing them with the resources and skills they need.
At Peach Tree Advocacy, the objective is to help all types of survivors take control of their situation with confidence regardless of age, sex, race, ethnicity or background. Advocates work as representatives for all types of survivors, assisting and supporting them on their journey to reclamation.
Team Spotlight
Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC)
The Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC) is a dynamic platform composed of individuals aged 14-26 with direct experience in the child welfare system. These passionate youth meet monthly to collaborate, shape agendas for YNN, and launch new YNN initiatives - like our Podcast!
YNN is actively trying to grow the YAAC. Each member receives a stipend of $35 per hour for their invaluable contributions, making YAAC not only a rewarding experience for personal growth but also a platform for meaningful community engagement. For young adults keen on making a difference and contributing to the ongoing development of YNN, joining the YAAC offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Hear from Keeton, a member of the YAAC, on why they wanted to be involved:
Do you know a young person who should be part of the YAAC?
Connect With Us
Follow & Spread the Word!
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