• YOUTH VILLAGES BRINGS JOY THROUGH SUMMER CAMP • DONOR SPOTLIGHT: CLARENCE HINTON
UPDATE
LETTER FROM THE REGIONAL BOARD CHAIR
Dear Friends,
As chair of the New England Advisory Board, I want to thank you for your continued support of Youth Villages. Your generosity powers real, lasting change for children, young people and families in our community.
In FY26, our board is focused on increasing awareness about Youth Villages’ impact, strengthening our board, building community partnerships and boosting support for critical programs like LifeSet™ and Youth Villages Scholars. These efforts help ensure more young people, many of whom have faced unimaginable challenges, can access the resources they need to build strong, independent futures. In this time of uncertainty, Youth Villages remains a fiscally responsible, deeply committed organization, reaching every child, family and young adult who needs help.
We’re thrilled to welcome new board members: Hilina Ajakaiye, Clarence Hinton, Gregg Mastoras and Heather Valteris, dedicated leaders bringing fresh energy, insights and a shared commitment to our mission. This issue, we spotlight Clarence, whose generosity and steadfast belief in the potential of young people reflects the very heart of our supporter community. It’s people like Clarence, and people like you, who ensure youth in crisis find stability, connection and hope.
We believe every young person deserves the chance to write their own story and because of you, that future is possible.
On behalf of the advisory board, thank you for being part of this important work. We’re honored to stand alongside you.
With gratitude,
Amanda M. Eisel CHAIR, ADVISORY BOARD
YOUTH VILLAGES NEW ENGLAND
Youth Villages New England Advisory Board
Amanda Eisel, Chair
Hilina Ajakaiye
Peter Campanella
Ryan Hayden
Clarence Hinton
Fran Lawler
Pamela Giasson Lynch
Gregg Mastoras
Malisa Schuyler
Marc Sorel
Heather Valteris
Pramila Yadav, MD
Youth Villages is a national leader in mental and behavioral health committed to finding the most effective solutions to help children, families and young adults overcome obstacles and live successfully. Working through direct services, partnerships with innovative public agencies and advocacy, we collaborate to bring positive change to child welfare, children’s mental health and justice systems. Our 5,000 employees serve more than 47,000 children and young adults in more than 100 locations in 29 states and the District of Columbia. Youth Villages has been recognized by the Harvard Business School and U.S. News & World Report and was identified by The White House as one of the nation’s most promising results-oriented nonprofit organizations.
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Gwendolyn, a Youth Villages Scholar and LifeSet participant, will graduate this December.
MY VOICE, MY JOURNEY GWENDOLYN:
No child dreams of being in foster care. A loving, stable family is the standard we all hope for. But not every child is born into ideal circumstances.
I never imagined I would enter the foster care system. Both my parents are alive and well. Neither struggles with substance abuse. For most of my childhood, I was surrounded by family.
I lived with my mother until I was 9 years old. Then, she decided to leave the state and my two siblings and I moved in with my father. We stayed with him until I turned 11. After he abandoned us in a cold apartment, my sister and I moved in with one of her friend’s parents. My brother was placed in a foster home.
At first, I didn’t understand what it meant to be in foster care or how it would affect me. I officially entered the system after being abused by the friend’s parent — a trauma that continued for about a year after I turned 16. When the abuse was discovered, I was quickly removed from the home and placed with my 11th grade chemistry teacher, who was certified as a foster parent. While living with her, I finished my senior year of high school.
I consider that placement a “lucky draw.” Many young people are not as fortunate to be placed with someone they know and trust. I urge foster parents to be patient with the young people in their care. We’ve already endured so much. Feeling unwanted or disconnected from our biological families only deepens the pain.
My foster parent, or “lucky draw,” made sure I stayed connected to my siblings, and that meant everything. She also supported my goals and
helped me develop a healthier relationship with myself.
Although I remain connected with my family, navigating adulthood without parents is incredibly difficult. But with Youth Villages’ LifeSet program, I didn’t have to walk that path alone. My state caseworker encouraged me to join the program.
I met my LifeSet specialist shortly after turning 18, and she made my life easier. She helped me apply to colleges, find a car and access financial support for daily needs and college tuition. Most importantly, she was compassionate and understood the challenges faced by former foster youth.
This December, I’ll graduate from the University of the South with a major in politics and a minor in history. After graduation, I plan to work as a paralegal before attending law school. My goal is to become a constitutional lawyer and use my degree to advocate for change.
Youth Villages was a breath of fresh air for me, and it can be the same for others in the foster care system.
From pens to planners, every detail counts. Thanks to Backpack Heroes, students walked into class prepared and proud.
BACKPACK HEROES 2025
A STRONG START WHEN IT MATTERS MOST
For many families supported by Youth Villages, back-toschool season is often filled with more uncertainty than excitement. How do you choose between rent and new backpacks? Gas money or a calculator? For caregivers already carrying so much, the growing list of school supplies can feel like a burden.
This year, because of Backpack Heroes, 1,300 students across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Rhode Island didn’t have to worry about showing up unprepared. Instead, they received brand-new backpacks, each filled with everything they needed to start the year ready to learn. These backpacks represented something bigger than supplies. It was stability in a moment of instability. It was a relief for parents. It was encouragement for kids who are trying to stay focused in the middle of hard circumstances. Backpacks were packed with care and by hand over several volunteer days, each including a handwritten card. Those short messages — “You’ve got this!” or “We believe in you!”— were more than kind words. They were reminders that even when life feels uncertain, these kids are not alone. People they’ll never meet took time to make sure they felt seen.
We also received hundreds of donations through our Amazon wish list, allowing us to keep supplies flowing even as the need grew. Partners like Two Men and a Truck ensured every backpack got where it needed to go, and our volunteer workshop at SBLI made this large effort feel personal and connected.
When
I opened my backpack, it felt like someone really believed in me. Having all the supplies I needed made me feel ready for school and excited instead of nervous.
AVA, AGE 12 INTERCEPT® PARTICIPANT
For many families, that backpack meant fewer decisions between essentials. For their kids, it meant walking into the classroom with confidence. That’s what Backpack Heroes is about — removing barriers, even small ones, that can have a lasting impact.
If this resonates with you, there are additional ways you can be a member of our village. Our Holiday Heroes campaign is live now and we’d love for you to be a part of it.
Contact Sam Tyler at samantha.tyler@youthvillages.org to learn how you can help make the next season a little brighter.
HOW YOUR MONTHLY GIFT HELPS
Donors who give monthly* provide reliable and consistent revenue to help us plan our programs’ growth.
In addition, many companies provide a matching gift to support employee giving.
$50 $100 $250 $500 PER MONTH PER MONTH PER MONTH PER MONTH
Fulfills two Holiday Heroes wish lists for our highest-need young people.
Provides one month of LifeSet support for a young person aging out of foster care.
*Impact over one year of monthly donations
Covers short-term needs like security deposits, and car repairs that help LifeSet participants get on their feet and pursue their goals.
Visit our donation page, choose your gift amount and then enter your company name to see if your gift — and impact — could be doubled.
Funds one young adult in the Youth Villages Scholars initiative for an entire year.
SPREADING SUNSHINE AND SMILES FOR EVERY KID
Summer camp is a rite of passage for many children... a place to make new friends, learn to swim, roast marshmallows and sleep under the stars. But for young people in Youth Villages’ programs, especially those in foster care, camp can be something far more powerful: a chance to heal.
Over the summer, several youth had their first camp experience over two full weeks. Some campers had such a transformative experience they even stayed for four weeks!
Youth Villages prioritizes Intercept youth who could benefit most from a summer camp experience. We collaborate with camp staff to provide safety planning and personalized support to ensure each child has a positive, enriching experience.
Why is camp so important?
According to child development experts, attending summer camp can help children build social and
emotional intelligence, develop independence and boost their selfconfidence. Being in a new, different environment can help alleviate their day-to-day stressors. In a supportive setting, they learn new skills and build trust not only with others but within themselves.
One camper, Madeline, returned from her time at camp a different person.
“Attending camp was a turning point in Madeline’s healing journey,” said Christina, her family intervention specialist with the Intercept program. “It gave her a sense of normalcy, built trust and brought her real joy. I’ve had the privilege of observing so much emotional growth since she came back. It was vital in rebuilding her self-worth after so much trauma.”
Camp also gives children the opportunity to just be kids — to laugh, explore and experience fun in a space that’s safe and welcoming.
The benefits can last long after summer ends.
Madeline is just one example. Across the region, youth returned from camp feeling more confident, connected and hopeful. They tried new things like archery, rock climbing, canoeing and performing in talent shows. Many found joy in accomplishments big and small. More importantly, they were seen, supported and celebrated for who they are.
And it’s all possible because of donors like you.
All kids, regardless of what’s going on in their lives, deserve the same opportunities to create fun summer memories. Youth Villages recognizes this need and with your support, made it a reality for young people in our programs. For young people like Madeline, it made a summer memory they will cherish for a lifetime.
DONOR SPOTLIGHT CLARENCE HINTON
How did you first get connected to Youth Villages?
I was first introduced to Youth Villages by [current local board member] Marc Sorel, who invited me to attend Red Kite Nite in 2024. I went in with curiosity and walked away deeply inspired. The stories, the impact and the energy in that room... it was unforgettable. That night planted the seed, but it was just the beginning.
What inspired you to support our mission and join the board?
The real turning point for me came during a ride-along I did with [LifeSet participant] James. That experience stayed with me in a way I didn’t expect. Sitting with him, hearing about his struggles, watching him push forward despite everything he had been through, it moved me deeply. I couldn’t stop thinking about him afterward, couldn’t stop rooting for him. That personal connection made it impossible not to get more involved. I joined the board shortly after, knowing this was an organization I wanted to give my full support to.
Is there a part of our work that really resonates with you?
The direct, human-centered approach. Youth Villages doesn’t offer abstract hope; it shows up, consistently, in the lives of real kids and families. There’s something incredibly powerful about meeting young people where they are and helping them find a path forward, no matter how complex their situation may be. That grounded, compassionate and long-term commitment really speaks to me.
What gives you hope for the young people and families we’re serving?
It’s the resilience I see in them, and the way Youth Villages creates space for that resilience to grow into real, sustainable progress. People like James, who not only found stability but became a voice for others at the 2025 gala, remind me that change is possible, and often, just one strong relationship or intervention away. That gives me hope every single day.
Clarence Hinton believes in Youth Villages’ mission and how we impact families and young people for the better.
Has there been a moment or story from your involvement that’s stuck with you?
James’ story is that moment for me. From the ride-along, to seeing him on stage as a featured speaker a year later... it’s a full-circle memory I’ll never forget. After the gala, I went up to him, not even sure if he’d remember me. But he did. He lit up, we hugged and the emotions just came pouring out. That moment — raw, real and joyful — was everything. It reaffirmed why I joined the board and why I’m all in.
What would you say to others thinking about supporting Youth Villages?
Do it. You won’t just be donating or volunteering, you’ll be changing lives. And if you’re lucky, like I was, those lives will change yours, too. This is an organization where your support has a real, tangible impact. You’ll see it. You’ll feel it. And, you’ll never forget it.
PARTNERS LAUNCH YOUTH VILLAGES’ INTERCEPT PROGRAM MODEL IN TEXAS, WISCONSIN
YOUTH VILLAGES NOW SERVING IN 29 STATES
The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth recently launched Intercept services in Wisconsin’s largest urban area, Milwaukee County, home to the city of Milwaukee.
In Texas, implementing provider ACH Child and Family Services is serving children and families in Tarrant County, where Fort Worth is located.
TEXAS
Our Community Our Kids (OCOK), a lead agency in this Texas region, was awarded a two-year grant from Youth Villages to help launch Intercept. OCOK chose ACH, which has a history of excellent service to families going back to 1907, to be the implementing provider.
“ACH believes that, whenever it’s safe, children should be with their family,” said Stacey Ladd, program manager for ACH. “Intercept is a proven, effective, research-informed practice that provides a whole-family approach to building trust and well-being among children, parents, caregivers and siblings.”
To deepen our impact, Youth Villages established the Strategic Partnerships initiative to identify and support organizations that implement our evidence-based program models across the country. The first LifeSet partnership launched in 2016. Today, staff support 30 LifeSet and Intercept partners, and we have built a network of some of the most forward-thinking public agencies and innovative private providers in the country.
WISCONSIN
Services in Wisconsin are through a Youth Villages partnership with the Division of Milwaukee Child Protective Services, which contracted with the Lincoln Center to provide Intercept. Founded in 1970, The Lincoln Center is a social enterprise organization that provides socio-emotional and mental health services through school- and community-based services.
“The Intercept program will be a great addition to the services offered in the Milwaukee area,” said Bridget Chybowski, DMCPS administrator. “We know when families can get the help they need at home and can work together,
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW YOUTH VILLAGES PARTNERS WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS TO HELP CHILDREN AND FAMILIES, REACH OUT TO STRATEGIC.PARTNERSHIPS@YOUTHVILLAGES.ORG.
BECOME A HOLIDAY HERO
HOLIDAY GIFT DRIVE
Make this holiday season extra special by spreading joy through gift-giving. Become a Youth Villages Holiday Hero today and brighten the lives of the youth we serve locally. With your cheerful donation, you can make a difference by helping fulfill their holiday wish lists. Help bring light to their world and give them a holiday they will never forget.
WAYS TO BE A HOLIDAY HERO
SHOP
The highest-need youth in our programs will fill out a holiday wish list. Heroes can shop from a personalized wish list or our Amazon wish list of most-requested gifts.
DONATE ONLINE
Visit our campaign website and make an online donation to help buy gifts or unfilled wish lists.
HOST AN EVENT
Contact us to learn more about this opportunity to support our youth.
For more information or to make an online donation, please visit youthvillages.org/holidayheroes.
Youth Villages is a national leader in children’s mental and behavioral health whose mission is to help children and families live successfully.
NORTHEAST CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN
1 – JUNE 30, 2025
INNOVATOR
$ 100,000+
Anonymous
One8 Foundation
VISIONARY
$ 50,000 to $ 99,999
Sandy and Paul Edgerley
Barbara and Amos Hostetter
Stephanie and Brian Spector
PILLAR
$ 25,000 to $ 49,999
Zeina and Rick Grinnell
Kristin and Paul Marcus
LEADER
$ 10,000 to $ 24,999
Anonymous
Anonymous
Anonymous
Lisa and Michael Josephson
Pamela and Scott Aldsworth
John Brabazon
Susan and Stephen Burbage
Tim and Maureen Dibble
Jana and Clarence Hinton
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Kristen and Kent Lucken
Rockland Recovery Group
Jennifer and Jason Ryan
Jenny and Rob Swartz
PROTECTOR
$ 5,000 to $ 9,999
Anonymous
Anonymous
BGBY Investments
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts
Bulfinch Strategies Group
Cogan Family Foundation
Consigli Construction
Herbert Dike
Gail and Matthew Hoffman
Jeffrey and Kristi Leerink
Jennifer Muldoon
SBLI
Fred and Judy Schmid
Charitable Foundation
ViB
Dr. Pramila Yadav
Zelis
BUILDER
$ 1,000 to $ 4,999
Anonymous
Christine Ciotti and Bob Hesslein
Hilina and Lanre Ajakaiye
Craig Beasley
Berkshire Bank
Andrew Choy
Mark Coneeny
Kristen and Daniel Curtin
Leah D’Errico
Joseph Davies
Meaghan Glynn and Matthew Foley
Sandra and George Gavris
Anne Gibson
Tiffany and Michael Grace
Jeri and Jason Hanson
Richard Harris
Dr. Mary Herlihy
Jason Korb
Elizabeth Leatherbee
Pamela and Tom Lynch
Dave Lewis
Rick MacDonald
Charu and Tony Madan
Lara Metcalf and Gregg Mastoras
Todd McCabe
Shilpa and Sumit Mehra
Keena Patel-Moran and Mike Moran
Jenna and Mark O’Donnell
Crystal and Lou Orfanos
Michael Pellini
Courtney and Jason Rossi
Malisa Schuyler
Market Street
Retail South LLC
Matthew Scholder
John Shea
Richard and Susan Smith
Family Foundation
Konstantinos Splagounias
South & Hill Strategies
Nichole Starr
Katherine Stueland
Bindi and Jay Tuli
Heather Valteris
Jesse Victoroff and Xiaoxiao Liu
Jess K. Williams
Windover Construction
Tracy and David Wishon
YOUTH SERVED JULY 1, 2024, TO JUNE 30, 2025
JOIN OUR EFFORTS BECOME A FORCE FOR FAMILIES
There are many ways you and your company or organization can get involved. Become a volunteer, host a drive at your office, attend an event or sponsor a young person through Holiday Heroes. Your support will directly impact the hundreds of young people we serve every day in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Rhode Island.
GET INVOLVED
Donations & Donor-Advised Fund/Foundations
Jessica Fredriksen, Assistant Director of Development
jessica.fredriksen@youthvillages.org | 781-937-7965
Events & General Support
Mackenzie Giuffre, Development Manager mackenzie.giuffre@youthvillages.org | 781-937-5250
Volunteering & Corporate Partnerships
Sam Tyler, Development Coordinator
samantha.tyler@youthvillages.org | 781-937-5219
3,569
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YOUTH VILLAGES
12 Gill Street, Suite 5800
Woburn, MA 01801
(Address Service Requested)
Youth Villages is a private nonprofit that serves more than 47,000 children and their families each year from offices in the following cities:
Alabama: Auburn
Arizona: Phoenix
Arkansas: Fayetteville, Jonesboro, Little Rock
Florida: Lakeland
Georgia: Atlanta, Douglasville
Indiana: Bloomington, Indianapolis
Kentucky: Lexington, Louisville
Louisiana: Baton Rouge
Maine: Portland
Massachusetts: Boston, Marlborough, Springfield, Raynham, Woburn
Mississippi: Biloxi, Greenwood, Hattiesburg, Hernando, Jackson, Meridian, Tupelo
New Hampshire: Manchester
North Carolina: Asheville, Boone, Charlotte, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Greenville, Louisburg, Raleigh-Durham, Waynesville, Wilmington
Ohio: Dayton, Worthington
Oklahoma: Oklahoma City, Tulsa
Oregon: Bend, Portland, Salem, Tillamook
South Carolina: Columbia
Rhode Island: Providence
Tennessee: Chattanooga, Clarksville, Columbia, Cookeville, Dickson, Dyersburg, Jackson, Johnson City, Knoxville, Memphis, Morristown, Nashville, Paris
Washington, D.C.