AGING UP

Aging UP stands out with its unique focus on one-to-one mentoring for youth ages 13 to 21 who have experienced foster care. Former foster youth are among Californias most vulnerable populations. Our research-based services are designed to mitigate the challenges they face, such as homelessness, unemployment, incarceration, and mental health issues. Research consistently shows that stable mentor relationships can counter trauma effects and build resilience in young people. Therefore, we recruit, screen, and train adult volunteers before matching them with a youth, ensuring each mentor completes 20 hours of trauma-informed, strength-based training and commits to ongoing training.The founders diligently worked full time, with nearly half of their hours unpaid and donated as in-kind, totaling 1,500 volunteer staff hours. The commitment of our volunteers is equally commendable, with mentoring hours totaling more than 1,400 hours, committee members served nearly 45 hours, professional bookkeeping services totaling more than 55 hours, and an additional 40 hours of administrative and program support services rendered as a donation. More than 20 hours of film production and well over 60 hours of website maintenance and graphic design services were provided in-kind. Twelve individuals totaled 80 hours of day-of-event support. Nearly $5,000 of tangible goods was donated to benefit the youth we serve.

Positive Recreation is a supportive element that enhances the mentoring experience. Aging UP believes everyone grows through new experiences and holds regularly scheduled group events. These meetUPs offer physical activities, creative expression, and unique experiences. They provide a safe space where youth from foster care can enjoy typical adolescent activities within a stigma-free environment. Exposure to new and engaging activities also develops coping techniques and personal growth.