Local nonprofit Fostering Youth Independence (FYI) is seeking ‘Allies’ to work one on one with Santa Clarita youth who are aging out of the L.A. County foster care system.

FYI Volunteers can help foster youth get needed resources, and provide guidance and encouragement as they complete post-secondary education training, officials said.  

“We don’t turn away any youth who need our support, and so the number of foster youth we help continues to grow,” said Carolyn Olsen, FYI’s Executive Director and Co-Founder. “And that means we have a greater need for additional Allies, who can play such a key role in the lives of these students who are transitioning into adulthood.”

Olsen added that FYI’s youth members have achieved many of their goals with the right support system  and caring adult Allies.

FYI Ally Fred Tazartes and his Youth

“In the five years since FYI was started, we’ve served 132 local youth,” Olsen added. “And there are many more who are aging out of the foster system without being adopted and who we are ready to support. We’re so grateful for the volunteers and Allies who are on this journey with us.”

Volunteer Allies have the unique opportunity to directly impact the lives of Santa Clarita’s transition-age foster youth ages 16 to 25 by providing support and helping them obtain needed resources. 

Allies also offer encouragement as the youth work to complete post-secondary education, and prepare to become successful, independent adults, according to officials. 

The rewards of becoming an Ally are clear.

“With a joyful heart, I am experiencing the rewards of watching and helping my student navigate as she ‘baby steps’ her way to her goals, large and small. I can’t imagine anything better,” said Local resident Lori Litel, who recently became an Ally.

Allies feel honored and joyful to experience this type of support. 

FYI Ally Sandra Zamudio and her youth

“I feel honored to be a part of my youth’s journey while knowing I’m making a positive impact.

It’s sweet to witness such resilience and growth and also be part of the FYI family,” said Sandy Zamudio, who has been paired with her youth since last November.

The training session is expected to be held on September 27 at 6 pm located at Christ Lutheran Church. 

To learn more or to register for the training, email here. 

To learn more about FYI visit here. 

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