By Kimberly Paulk, Senior Connector at SHARECharlotte.com, a free, easy and local website that makes it easy to learn about and engage with our local nonprofits
For in every adult there dwells the child that was, and in every child there lies the adult that will be.”- John Connolly
What do you do if you’re too old for adoption, but too young and inexperienced to live on your own? You need a safety net – a place filled with people who can help you move to the next phase of your life successfully.
That’s where The Relatives comes in. This local nonprofit helps Charlotte kids through three key programs:
Youth Crisis Center – a safe place for kids 7-17 who are homeless, have run away from home, or are just going through a rough family situation with nowhere else to turn.
On Ramp – a resource center for young adults 16-24 who need help transitioning from being a kid to life as an independent adult.
Journey Place – a specialized program for young adult males 18-21 who are aging out of foster care and need help on the journey to becoming a successful adult.
The Relatives is Mecklenburg County’s only shelter for homeless and runaway youth. It’s a special place that changes lives – both for the 1,200 young people who are touched by their programs each year and for the volunteers who support them.
Interested in getting involved?
Here are a few ways, and there are many more at SHARE Charlotte:
Mommy Talk – Join this On Ramp group for new, current, or expecting mothers. Volunteers meet with and talk to young moms about the joys and challenging moments of mommy-hood.
Make or bring lunch – Come to the Crisis Center and bring or make lunch with the children who are currently staying there. This can be an individual or group volunteer activity.
Resource Center Support – Help in the office, along with assisting with resume writing, job searching, and related activities.
Meet the Relatives – Go see The Relatives in person at an upcoming tour and info session.
