The Relatives Family Update
Please ensure you scroll down to read all of the recent stories in this newsletter.
After a refreshing 10-week professional leave, I’ve returned to The Relatives with a renewed sense of purpose and deep gratitude—for our mission, our team, and for you, our extended family of supporters. Time away gave me the space to reflect on what it truly means to “fulfill our promise,” and I came back more committed than ever to ensuring that every young person we serve has the opportunity to live safely and independently.
At The Relatives, we know that independence isn’t just about having a roof over your head—it’s about having the tools, support, and belief in yourself to build a future. That’s exactly what our On Ramp Resource Center provides through our programs. We’re helping young adults secure a job, navigate public transportation, and learn how to budget for groceries. We’re walking alongside them every step of the way. We’re not just offering services—we’re offering relief, acceptance, and empowerment.
I recently spoke with a young woman in our housing program who told me,“I never thought I could do this on my own—but now I know I can.”That’s the power of your support. You’re not just helping young people survive, you’re helping them thrive. You’re helping them believe in their ability to live independently and dream boldly.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re not just keeping kids safe and families together—we’re building a community where every young person has the chance to stand tall and move forward with confidence.
Trish Hobson
Executive Director
Part of the journey of walking towards living independently includes finding stable housing. Each year it costs The Relatives $10,000 per young adult to provide a year’s worth of safe housing.
A gift of $28 provides a homeless young adult with one night of safe, stable housing, while $127 offers a full month of support with job readiness and interview preparation, which are key steps toward lasting independence.
Any amount can help provide relief to a child or young adult in need.
Support Their Journey To Safety And Stability
Building Skills for a Brighter Future
At The Relatives’ On Ramp Resource Center, we believe that independence is a journey. That’s why our weekly workshop series is designed to equip young adults with the life skills, confidence, and support they need to thrive on their own.
With 15 to 25 workshops held each week, our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners offer hands-on learning experiences that cover everything from budgeting and employment readiness to mindfulness, GED tutoring, and healthy eating. Each workshop is a stepping stone toward self-sufficiency and personal growth.
“Young adults need an opportunity to learn the skills that help them thrive independently in the community,” says Youth Engagement Specialist Trish A. “We provide that at The Relatives, much like a parent or guardian would in a traditional household.”
Whether it’s through a Love and Logic parenting session, a creative arts and crafts activity, or a practical lesson in financial literacy, each workshop is a chance for our youth to build the tools and mindsets they need to live productive, independent lives. Thanks to your support, we’re not just teaching skills—we’re nurturing futures.
Make a Difference This Summer
Summer is a time of freedom and fun—but for many young people in crisis, it can also be a time of uncertainty and isolation. That’s where you come in.
“What Can I Do to Help?”
You can volunteer to spend some time engaging with or providing opportunities for engagement to youth staying at our crisis center in any number of ways:
• Host a picnic and help create memories that last a lifetime by eating, playing games, and bringing laughter to our youth
• Provide some much-deserved ice cream on National Soft Serve Ice Cream Day
• Show them how it’s done and help make the best sandwiches of the summer for all to enjoy
• Provide a dinner like our popular Mac & Cheese or Taco Tuesday nights each month
• Got your own idea? Contact Redia Baxter and setup your own opportunity!
Ready to make a difference?
You can be the reason someone feels seen, heard, and supported this summer; it only takes an hour or two out of your day to make that difference—won’t you say yes to spending time with your Relatives?
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