OUR MISSION IS TO EMPOWER ORPHANED AND VULNERABLE YOUTH AS THEY TRANSITION OUT OF STATE CARE INTO INDEPENDENT LIVING. 

Brick by Brick Youth Services is looking to begin work in the state of Oregon. As of 2023, there are approximately 5,346 kids in foster care in Oregon. In addition, Oregon has the highest rate of unaccompanied, unsheltered youth in the country. In 2023, more than 1,400 children and young adults experienced homelessness without a parent or guardian. Brick by Brick Youth Services sees a need and opportunity to connect these young adults to a community to help them transition into a complete and fulfilling independent life. 

Around the world, youth aging out of state care are put into vulnerable positions. It is not uncommon for kids to age out, try to navigate this new road on their own, and then become susceptible to traffickers due to homelessness, get involved in gangs or criminal life, become pregnant, become homeless, addicted to substances, or commit suicide. In response to this need, we need to empower underserved youth by teaching them skills like cooking, how to fill out job applications, budget their money, get their drivers licenses, obtain credit, etc. We are looking to open a facility that will provide transition housing, counseling services, and life skills training in a supportive community with mentors who value and care for them and will teach them to succeed. 

VALUES 

Brick by Brick Youth Services believes that we are all created with a purpose, and that each individual has immense worth and value, regardless of their circumstances or past history. We find this to be a key value of our program as we look to teach the participants that their lives have enormous potential, and they can have hope for the future. 

Who We Are 

Our board of Directors and Governance Board covers a diverse range of backgrounds and interests, from business owners to foster parents to advocates, all coming together to make this program a reality. 

Heather Norlander

William Gent 

Priscilla Hamlin

Terry Markey 

Jennifer Akiyama

Rita Schrock