LIFESET NETWORK PROVIDES CONNECTION FOR YOUNG ADULTS

SUPPORTERS FROM Youth Villages’ LifeSet Network filled Michelle’s registry last spring.

When the boxes arrived, there was a bicycle for her to ride alongside her 6-year-old son, Brandon. There was also a coffee table and a bookcase to help furnish the college apartment they share, a children’s cookbook and a complete set of Dr. Seuss books.

Founded by Vanessa Diffenbaugh, best-selling author and a Youth Villages national board member as The Camellia

Network, LifeSetNetwork.org is a social crowdfunding website allowing supporters from across the country to connect with former foster youth. Donors fulfill registries and stay connected with the young people to provide encouragement and support. Most young people are like Michelle and list items they need for a first apartment or dorm room – things family might provide otherwise.

Some young people register items for their children. Michelle said Brandon’s favorite books are the Dr. Seuss collection he received from the LifeSet Network.

“He asks me to read them to him every night at bedtime,” she said.