GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good.
Over the past 10 years, this idea has grown into a year-round global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity, and there is no better time to unleash that generosity than during the holiday season! At this time of year, as the days grow short and the weather turns cold, we reach for the cozy winter comforts of friends and family, warm homes and hot meals, and the bright cheer of a season full of gifts, celebrations, and shared traditions.
For so many of our young people experiencing homelessness, they don’t have the comforting winter customs that we take for granted. They have no safe home to escape from the cold, no hot meals to warm their bones, and no cozy family to exchange gifts and happy celebrations with. The future is not bright, the days are not friendly, and survival is a struggle. But there is something we can do to help! At YouthCare, so many young people are finding the support they need to transform their lives. As Mackenzie, a former Youthcare client said at our last luncheon:
“I feel like a soldier who has endured many battles. I never used to believe there were good people in the world, but now I have a whole community of people who care about me and have my back. Through all the ups and downs, through all of the challenges in my life, the Orion Center was an anchor that I could always return to for support and resources and to remember my value in this world.”
Mackenzie, YouthCare client
Corey, also a YouthCare client and speaker at our last luncheon had this to say about his time at the University District Youth Center:
“When I first came to UDYC it felt like they put the effort into listening to me and that I had a voice. I felt heard, and I felt like they cared. The staff at UDYC were like the Avengers. They all had different powers and things they were good at, but they worked together as a team. All of their strengths came together to create a great superpower. Their superpower helped take the heavy weight off of my shoulders. I felt like my UDYC Avengers team gave me the support and strength I need to pursue my dreams and passions.”
Corey, YouthCare client
You can make a difference for young people like Corey and Mackenzie this winter! Along with YouthCare’s commitment to housing, education, stability, and community, we are committed to being a warm, safe, and bright place for youth. Would you consider joining us in our work and supporting us this GivingTuesday? Below are the four top ways to contribute this season.
Payment Online or by Phone
Online payments can be made at this link. Checks can also be mailed to 2500 NE 54th St, Seattle, WA 98105.
Gift of Stock
Transferring stock is an easy way to make a tax-deductible investment in homeless youth. To make a gift of stock, please contact development@youthcare.org.
Donor Advised Funds
If you’re interested in making a gift through your donor-advised fund, please contact development@youthcare.org.
Monthly Giving
Monthly giving is a great way to ensure steady and ongoing support for the young people we serve. To learn more or get set up, please contact development@youthcare.org, (206) 658-3738.
Click here to find more ways you can support young people at YouthCare!