The Relatives Family Update
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As summer winds down and a new school year begins, we at The Relatives are reminded of the incredible resilience and potential of the young people we serve. For many youth in crisis, the start of school can be both a chance at a new beginning and a source of anxiety.
Amid the chaos of trauma, instability, or displacement, our team works tirelessly to bring calm and offer consistency, safety, and support when it’s needed most. Whether a young person is staying at our Youth Crisis Center for one night or two weeks, we prioritize maintaining routines that foster achievement and healing.
One of the most impactful ways we do this is by helping youth stay connected to their home schools and extracurricular activities. These routines provide structure and a sense of belonging that can be deeply grounding during times of uncertainty. By minimizing disruption, we help young people continue to grow, even while navigating difficult circumstances.
Thanks to your ongoing support, we’re able to walk alongside these youth as they pursue their goals and dreams. Your generosity allows us to be a steady presence in their lives, helping them find calm in the storm and encouraging them to believe in their own capacity for achievement. As we enter this new school year together, we’re filled with hope for all that lies ahead.
Warm regards,
Marcus Mickell
Program Manager
The Relatives Youth Crisis Center
Make the first days their best days with your support – Click Here
The Relatives is Mecklenburg County’s only emergency shelter for youth and adolescents. Our team spends school mornings and afternoons driving across the community to ensure every child gets to attend their own school. It costs an average of $60 per week to keep our van’s gas tank filled—and every mile driven helps preserve a sense of normalcy during an otherwise uncertain time.
By helping offset these daily expenses, you’re not just fueling a vehicle—you’re fueling hope, connection, and the promise of a brighter school year.
Big changes are coming to charitable giving — and 2025 is the perfect time to get ahead.
Starting in 2026, new federal tax rules may impact how your gifts are deducted:
- If you typically take the standard deduction, you may be eligible for a new charitable deduction: up to $1,000 for individuals or $2,000 for couples.
- If you itemize, you’ll only be able to deduct the portion of your gifts that exceeds 0.5% of your income.
These changes might affect how and when you choose to give. For many donors, 2025 may be a meaningful time to revisit your giving plans.
Non-cash gifts like stock, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs), or gifts from a Donor-Advised Fund may offer additional savings while maximizing your charitable impact.
Note: The purpose of this publication is solely educational and not intended as tax advice. Please consult your financial professionals for specific circumstances.
Preparing Them For Success
The Relatives believes every young adult deserves the opportunity to achieve their academic goals with confidence and support. The education support offered at the On Ramp Resource Center is designed to meet students where they are, offering personalized GED tutoring that helps learners build foundational skills and prepare for testing at their own pace. Whether someone is returning to school after time away or seeking a fresh start, our tutor, Ms. Pendle, provides encouragement and structure to help students succeed.
“We’re here to remind young adults that their goals are valid and achievable. Whether it’s earning a GED or stepping into a college classroom for the first time, we walk alongside them every step of the way.” – Katie Spence, Employment Readiness Specialist
In addition to GED support, we assist young adults with the often overwhelming process of applying to college. From navigating applications to registering for classes, our team offers hands-on guidance to ensure students feel informed and empowered every step of the way. We celebrate each milestone—whether it’s submitting a first college application or enrolling in a full course load—because we know these moments matter.
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