About AcademySTAY
At AcademySTAY, we're dedicated to providing an environment where 18 to 24-year-old aged-out foster youth can transition into independent adulthood with safety and support. Our experienced staff and mentors are thoroughly trained in trauma-informed practices to ensure youth feel secure with us. The ideal candidate is pursuing education through university, community college, trade school, or apprenticeship and needs a safe place to live and gain the necessary life skills to go on to live the life they desire.
MORE THAN a place to stay
We don't just provide a place to stay - we cultivate a sense of belonging by creating meaningful relationships through regularly scheduled events and activities. Each student has their own mentor to provide them with a wealth of knowledge as well as a connection to the community.
STEPS TO SUCCESS
Our students also benefit from valuable classes which will arm them with important life skills such as financial literacy, study skills, and living in a healthy and clean environment. It provides the perfect space for these youth to take the next step toward becoming successful, independent adults.
Our Programs
Housing
Education and Training
Mental Health Support
Community Building
Eligibility Criteria
At AcademySTAY, we are dedicated to providing support and opportunities to 18-24 year old aged-out foster youth facing challenging circumstances. To qualify for our program, we consider the following criteria:
Commitment & Participation
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Willingness to actively engage in our comprehensive program for 5 hours each week
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Agreement to abide by program rules and guidelines
Age & Foster history
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Individuals aged 18-24
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In foster care after the age of 16
Presence of Risk Factors
We prioritize applicants who have experienced one or more of the following:
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Aged out of foster care
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Identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, or a person of color)
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Identify as LGBTQ+
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Individuals with disabilities
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Individuals from low-income backgrounds
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Immigrants up to 3rd generation
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Legal & Personal Conduct
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No pending arrests awaiting adjudication
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No current obligations that would impede full participation in the program
Independent Living Skills
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Ability to manage personal needs such as bathing, laundry, and cooking
Housing History
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No prior eviction due to specific reasons including:
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Destruction of property
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Engaging in violence
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Leadership Team
The AcademySTAY team is made up of dedicated professionals who are passionate about helping young adults succeed. Our staff includes experienced educators, trauma informed mental health professionals, and community organizers who work together to provide the best possible support for our students.
Board of Directors
Staff
Led by our Chief Executive Officer, Jenny Davidson, who brings 30 years of nonprofit experience and trauma-informed practices.
Jenny Davidson
CEO
How You Can Help
1. Connect & Volunteer
We look forward to connecting with you.
To learn more about AcademySTAY and how you can get involved, please fill out the volunteer form or contact us at info@AcademySTAY.org!
916-248-7961
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Volunteer Opportunities
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Life Skills Facilitator
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Garden
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Mentors
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Drivers
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Events
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Ambassadors
2. Donate
Support aged-out foster youth pursuing higher education by providing stable housing and educational assistance. Your donation makes a profound difference, offering them a safe home while they focus on their studies. Join us in empowering these resilient individuals to reach their full potential. Donate today and transform lives.
Make a donation
Frequency
One time
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Amount
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3. Sponsorships
Corporate Sponsorships are available. If your organization would like to get involved and help support student youth in the community via AcademySTAY, email info@AcademySTAY.org and we will help determine the best ways your organization can sponsor one of our programs or services.
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