November is National Runaway Youth Awareness Month!

Did you know….
  • 32% of runaway and homeless youth have attempted suicide at some point in their lives.
  • Over 50% of youth in shelters and on the streets reported that their parents either told them to leave or knew they were leaving but did not care.

NRPM is co-sponsored each year by the National Runaway Switchboard and the National Network for Youth.  Youth Connections partners with NRPRM to connect runaway youth with our Safe Place and Host Homes temporary shelter program.  Our Safe Place program provides access to immediate help and supportive resources for Johnson and Morgan County youth in crisis through a network of over 118 Safe Place sites and a 24 youth helpline (866 738-5437) or (text 317 727-2571).

When a youth runs away, the impact is felt throughout our entire community. All of us—individuals, businesses, community groups, teachers, elected officials, and human service agencies—are encouraged to participate in National Runaway Prevention Month. Working together to identify resources and to help youth develop life skills can make the difference between a youth running away and/or finding needed resources.  To get involved, contact Thelma Slisher at Thelma@youthconnections.org or call (317) 738-3273 x-106

Calling All Morgan County Youth Leaders!

Youth Connections is working with United Way of Central Indiana to promote the Youth Leadership Initiative. It is a leadership program to prepare high school students to understand the nonprofit system and serve on nonprofit boards and committees. Youth Connections invites teens in Morgan County to apply for this unique opportunity. If accepted into the program, Youth Connections will pay the program fee. To learn more about the program click here. To apply, fill out an application here.

Important note: Please send applications to Youth Connections. They will be sent into United Way of Central Indiana Offices. The deadline for applications is November 4, 2011 at 3 p.m. If you have any questions, please call the office at 317-738-3273 or email Minta at minta@youthconnections.org

Youth Feel Brunt of Country’s Economic Woes

Executive Director, Caterina Tassara was asked to weigh in on the results of the Kids Count Data Book report.

A growing number of Hoosier children and their families are living in poverty in part because of the sluggish economy and limited job growth, according to a recent study released by the Annie E. Casey Foundation.

The 2011 Kids Count Data Book report shows that from 2000 to 2009, the percent of children in Indiana living in families below the federal poverty level rose from 14 to 20 percent. Approximately 311,000 children live below the federal level, which is defined as $21,756 for a family of two adults and two children.

Click to read the entire The Reporter Times article.

Homeless Youth

  • Child advocates say the number of homeless children in Indiana is at a staggering level and is increasing by the year. Click here for the entire story.
  • Homeless children – those who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence – face numerous barriers to academic and developmental success. Learn more here.
  • Outreach groups help Indiana youth with homelessness issues.Watch the video here.