Our Mission
StandUp For Kids is a nationally recognized non-profit charity that works directly with thousands of homeless youth across the country. Our organization was founded in 1990 by a group of volunteers in San Diego, CA. Starting from a program in one city, StandUp For Kids has grown to sustain locations in 18 cities across 10 states and the District of Columbia. We remain a nearly all-volunteer organization that prioritizes the needs of the youth we serve.
Simply put, we are here to empower homeless and at-risk youth toward lifelong personal growth, and to create in these youth a sincere belief in themselves through open, straightforward counseling, mentoring, and life-skills training.
Mission Ending the cycle of youth homelessness.
We do this in cities across America, one youth at a time.
Vision We strive to build communities where all youth know care, feel loved and have a support system to help them move quickly from surviving to thriving.
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Our Impact
about 6 years ago — Orange County CA
Born in Uganda and abandoned by his parents at age 6, Al moved to the US with his aunt, uncle and sister when he was 10, but only to discover more obstacles and mental abuse. He does not have fond memories of his childhood; his father was addicted to drugs and alcohol and his mother could no longer afford to take care of him and his sister. After years of neglect and an abusive upbringing, Al began to use marijuana as a way to ease his pain, depression and insomnia – he was introduced to marijuana by his father at age 5. As a result of legal issues involving domestic abuse, Al moved out of his uncle’s house and began sleeping in a shed provided by a friend’s mother. In February, Al met a StandUp For Kids Mentor and on February 18, his mentor informed Al about an opening in a sober living home. Al struggled internally as he was unsure if he could follow the structure and keep up with the meetings, chores and work that was required. He decided to try it. Although it has been a difficult transition and a lifelong struggle for Al, he has kept up with his meetings, chores and work as well as applying and interviewing for full time jobs. In developing his passion for music, Al records songs and videos in his free time and uses it as a way to express himself and steer clear of substance abuse. We are proud of Al ’s strength and determination to abstain from substances and facing life head on. We look forward to receiving updates on his future achievements. Thinking about making an impact on the lives of homeless youth like Al? Contact us to find out how you can become a mentor today in your community! Email: orangecounty@standupforkids.org
almost 8 years ago — Huntington Beach, CA
Quis, 21 years old, grew up in Blythe, CA. He says, “Where I’m from, people are dying left and right.” His mother was a gang member and Quis ended up following in her footsteps because he said they looked out for him and protected him more than his own family did. This isn’t the life he wanted but it’s the life he was born into. Read his story http://www.standupforkids.org/blog/article/meet-quis
about 7 years ago — Huntington Beach, CA
Meet Brittany and listen to her story and how she overcame some major obstacles. http://www.standupforkids.org/blog/article/meet-brittany
about 7 years ago — Anaheim CA
Alejandra, age 16, and Beto, age 15, are brother and sister who both attend weekly meetings at our Anaheim Outreach Center. The two of them were born in Mexico and grew up in Anaheim, CA. They left Mexico when Alejandra was 2 years old and Beto was 1. Currently, they live with their mom, dad, younger brother, and another family in a small apartment in Anaheim. Read more http://www.standupforkids.org/blog/article/meet-alejandra-and-beto
almost 7 years ago — Anaheim CA
Why Alejandra Loves StandUp For Kids https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GR9ChfYIKjA