A Santa Clarita nonprofit, Fostering Youth Independence (FYI), is seeking “allies” to work with youth who are aging out of the Los Angeles County foster care system amidst the pandemic.

A virtual training session is scheduled to be held Tuesday, Nov. 10 for interested volunteers, according to the organization.

“The COVID-19 shutdown has heightened foster youths’ need for support, which is evidenced by the number of new youth who have joined FYI’s program since March,” said Carolyn Olsen, FYI’s executive director and co-founder.  “And along with new youth comes the need for more Allies, who have been more difficult to recruit during these challenging times.”

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, FYI officials said.

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

The rewards of becoming an Ally are clear from local resident Stacy Hansen, who was paired with her youth via Zoom in April.

Hansen found creative ways to communicate with and encourage her youth by sending texts and care packages, according to FYI officials.

The pair were finally able to meet in person in July and have since formed a special bond.

“I love being an Ally. I love the moments I can spend with my amazing girl.  I wasn’t expecting to become as emotionally invested as I have, and really care about this girl’s future,” Hansen said.  “I haven’t noticed any time spent with her as being a sacrifice, just a fabulous blessing for me and my family.  I am so grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to become a part of FYI.”

The Nov. 10 training session is set to be held via Zoom from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

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

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