Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orangewood Foundation?
Orangewood Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We provide innovative services that uplift and empower young people who face challenges across Orange County and beyond. We are working towards a future where every young person thrives.
Who do we serve?
We serve young people ages 16 to 25 who are Orange County’s most vulnerable because they are coming out of the foster care system or experiencing homelessness or human trafficking. We have a few programs that serve additional age ranges, such as Project C.H.O.I.C.E. who supports young people 11-25 years old, as well our scholarships can be awarded to some young adults over the age of 25.
When was Orangewood Foundation founded and why?
Orangewood Foundation was founded in 1981 to support young people coming out of the foster care system. It has since grown to support all vulnerable young people in Orange County, such as those experiencing homelessness & trafficking.
Why should youth seek services at Orangewood Foundation?
We’re the only organization in Orange County serving this age group and supporting them in the four essential areas of life: Basic Needs, Housing Support, Education and Life Skills, and Employment.
How does Orangewood Foundation support young people currently in foster care?
Our Youth Connected Program (YCP) provides for young people in foster care with comprehensive support to succeed. This is done through housing, pairing with suitable foster families, essential life skills training, Independent Living Program (ILP) services, robust educational access to the Samueli Academy, employment mentorship, and more. We also provide resources for young people and their foster families to develop positive, healthy relationships.
How does Orangewood Foundation provide housing for young people in need, and what do they need to qualify?
Orangewood Foundation provides a variety of housing options tailored to the unique challenges young people are facing:
- Rising Tide – designated for young people at risk of homelessness. This program provides safe, affordable apartments for up to two years while in the search for permanent housing. Apply HERE if this interests you.
- Lighthouse – housing for female young adults that are survivors of human trafficking. It is part of Orangewood Foundation’s overall programming that provides trauma-informed care and ongoing support. Apply HERE if this interests you.
- Casa de Rosemary – special housing for mothers ages 18-22 with children spanning 0-5 years. The Casa de Rosemary program provides support to single mothers with necessary resources to feel confident in pursuing this journey alone. Apply HERE if this interests you.
- Youth Connected Program (YCP) – part of the program provides weekday housing for young people in foster care (weekends are spent with foster families). If interested in learning more about YCP or becoming a foster family, learn more HERE.
Aside from offering transitional housing, we also provide resources and counseling to help young people find their own home when ready.
How does Orangewood Foundation provide support to those who survived or are at risk of human trafficking?
We offer safe spaces for young people who are in trafficking situations, looking to leave the life, or think they might experience trafficking in the future. Through initiatives like our Project C.H.O.I.C.E. drop-in program and Lighthouse housing program, we provide key support including transitional housing, grocery shopping, counseling, and more.
Is Orangewood Foundation affiliated with the Orange County Children's Home?
We are no longer affiliated with the Orangewood Children and Family Center. It is run by the County. Please see our history for more information.
What's Orangewood Foundation's connection to the Samueli Academy?
We launched the Samueli Charter High School in 2013 as an opportunity to provide students from foster care with an opportunity to thrive academically. The academy was launched following 10 years of research on improving educational outcomes for young people in foster care. The school offers priority enrollment for middle and high school-aged children in the foster care system and was launched on behalf of members of Orangewood Foundation’s board of directors, Susan Samueli and Sandi Jackson. The school now operates independently from Orangewood Foundation, however many of our programs incorporate the academy.
How can you support Orangewood Foundation?
There are many meaningful ways that you can support us. These include, but are not limited to:
- Donations – help support young people achieve all monumental goals from purchasing school supplies to supporting therapy sessions.
- Volunteer – there are many ways you can volunteer to support young people in need while doing what you love. Here are the ways you can help!
- Corporate volunteering
- Group volunteering
- Kitchen volunteering
- Participate in Fundraising Events
- Host a Workshop to teach youth about your profession
- Office Support
How can your business become a partner of Orangewood Foundation?
Our Corporate Cares program provides several opportunities for your business to support Orangewood Foundation. Notable initiatives include:
- Give Back Events: Sponsor a Give Back event through raising money to support the most significant moments of a young person’s journey.
- Company Peer to Peer Fundraising: Challenge your team to raise money for young people living in Orange County. Your efforts will empower Orangewood Foundation with the resources we need to continue serving our community.
- Nominate Us for a Grant: Champion our cause by nominating Orangewood Foundation for funding opportunities. We humbly use donations, grants, and awards to directly help young people.
- Get Involved at an Orangewood Foundation Event: Interested in becoming a sponsor? Looking for opportunities to volunteer? Explore our upcoming events to see how your business can make an impact!
*For any additional information or questions, please contact at [email protected]
Support Our Mission
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Resources For Young People
Need support? See which of our programs may be right for you.
