Introduction

Because of you, everyday moments added up to something big this year. A teen found the courage to meet with a mentor. A parent exhaled when diapers arrived just when the budget couldn’t stretch any further. A neighbor found the right resource on the first try.

In our annual letter, we shared the big picture. Here, we want to take you a little deeper — into the numbers, the moments, and the community power behind them.

By the Numbers

254 youth engaged across mentoring and out-of-school time
30 active mentors showing up week after week
584 households supported via the Family Resource Center
57,668 diapers distributed to Lake County families
558 resource connections so families didn’t navigate alone
$299,923.67 in cash-value resources returned to our community

Youth & Mentoring: Confidence that grows with every meeting

Youth participated in 311 pro-social youth-directed activities. Attendance remained strong, with 78% average participation for programming — even as youth balanced sports, jobs, and family responsibilities.

254 youth took part in these opportunities; 85% of youth report growth in 3 or more of 5 social-emotional focus areas, and 100% report connection to a trusted adult.

Mentors contributed 689 volunteer hours, and mentor pairs collectively met for 213 activities over the year.

“It’s not just participation — it’s belonging.”

Out-of-School Time (SELOOST): Practice, play, and personal growth

Through SELOOST, young people found spaces to practice leadership, creativity, and teamwork through pro-social activities designed around their voice and interests.

Family Resource Center: Meeting families where they are

Here’s how your generosity translated into community value this year:

Housing and other basic needs: $267,942.12
Cash stipends to participants: $7,950.00
Diapers and baby essentials: $24,031.55

Note: Partner-linked supports are not included in this breakdown.

Parenting & Family Education: Strengthening families from within

Active Parenting: 27 graduates
Immigrant support: 25 participants

Parents report improved stress management, stronger family relationships, and increased confidence — skills that ripple through daily life.

A Quick Story: Confidence in Action

A 4th-grader faced the free-throw line, hesitant. Her mentor guided her through small steps: bend, breathe, bounce, shoot. The ball swished through — and something clicked. That same afternoon she began a homework planner.

Where We’re Going Next

Expand mentor training and recruitment to reduce the youth waitlist
Offer additional youth programming options aligned with student interests and schedules