The St. Joe Foundation proudly supports the YMCA’s Youth Advocacy program. The primary goal of the Youth Advocacy program has always been to empower young people with the confidence and skills necessary to advocate for themselves. Advocates at their Youth Services Bureau (YSB) fill a crucial void in a young person’s life, one created by physical, mental, or emotional trauma. While essential, this journey of personal growth can be challenging for both the youth striving to improve their circumstances and the advocate guiding them through the process.

This was evident in the case of Tameya, who joined the Youth Advocacy program under the mentorship of Myriam Foster. When she first began working with YSB, Tameya exhibited a defiant attitude, particularly toward her family. Her home life had become toxic, marked by constant conflict and isolation. Her mother and stepfather expected her to work long hours outside school to contribute financially to the household. These demands fostered deep resentment, causing Tameya to withdraw from her family and approach the world with frustration and agitation.

In the early stages, Myriam faced significant challenges in building rapport with Tameya, who initially viewed her as just another person making demands. However, with patience and persistence, Myriam created a safe space where Tameya could express her thoughts and feelings freely. As trust grew, Myriam went beyond individual support by organizing family meetings to foster open communication and better understand their dynamic. These sessions became a turning point, providing the entire family with the tools to rebuild and strengthen their relationships.

Through this process, Tameya discovered her voice and potential. She embraced her love for singing and became deeply involved in show choir, channeling her energy into positive outlets. Her academic performance flourished, culminating in her graduation from high school with honors. Today, Tameya is enrolled in one of the nation’s top nursing programs at the University of Saint Francis and is preparing to live independently. Her journey has transformed her perspective—she now envisions a future dedicated to helping others, a testament to the profound impact of advocacy, perseverance, and self-discovery.

The St. Joseph Community Health Foundation has a long history of supporting the YMCA’s Youth Advocacy program, focusing on vulnerable youth. By emphasizing “Community,” the program promotes attentive listening and brave responses, ensuring advocates support those in need.