A meaningful partnership was announced between CASA For Children of Multnomah, Washington, Columbia & Tillamook Counties, an organization dedicated to providing trained advocates for children in the foster care system; Project 48, which offers critical resources and mentorship to youth experiencing vulnerable and traumatic transitions in the foster care system; Project Lemonade, which provides resources and empowerment opportunities for youth in foster care; and Kinship House, the only organization in Portland solely focused on helping foster and adopted children heal from trauma through specialized mental health therapy. Together, these organizations join forces as part of Willamette Week’s Give!Guide 2024 campaign. ​ This collaborative effort not only strengthens each organization’s ability to serve youth in foster care, but creates a strong network of support to address their varied needs. From advocacy and essential resources to mental health support and empowerment opportunities, this partnership brings together a wide range of services designed to make a meaningful, lasting impact on foster youth and families in the region. ​ “Project 48 is proud to partner with Project Lemonade, CASA, and Kinship House this holiday season to bring greater awareness to the foster care system and the unique challenges faced by youth within it,” said Courtney Buckley, Executive Director of Project 48. “Together, we aim to shine a light on the needs of these young individuals and highlight the importance of community support, resources, and advocacy. Through our collective efforts, we hope to foster a sense of belonging and resilience for youth experiencing foster care, helping to ensure they receive the support and opportunities they deserve.” ​ “It's no secret that foster care is hard,” said Executive Director of CASA for Children, Betsy Stark Miller. “CASA for Children is honored to be a part of this strong local network of nonprofits supporting children at an especially vulnerable time in their lives.” ​ “30% of youth and young adults experiencing homelessness have a history in foster care. Supporting our youth early on keeps our kids from crisis and makes Portland a kinder place,” said Development Director of Project Lemonade, Allison Specter. ​ “We are proud to partner with CASA, Project Lemonade and Project 48 to ensure that every child in our community has access to the supports and services they need no matter what,” said Natalie Wood, Executive Director of Kinship House. “Whether that be clothing, court representation, mentorship, or therapy – each of our organizations are meeting a significant need today, working to build a community-wide safety net that bolsters these phenomenal kids, and planting the seeds that can change lives.” ​ The partnership also aims to drive greater attention to the Give!Guide 2024 campaign, through which each organization seeks to raise critical funds to support their work. To donate, visit each organization’s Give!Guide donation page: CASA, Project 48, Project Lemonade, Kinship House. Donors who give on a Big Give Day will also be to be entered to win a variety of exciting prizes.

Project 48 is in Willamette Week's Give Guide! https://giveguide.org/nonprofits/project-48

Project 48 is a nonprofit committed to improving outcomes for foster youth by supporting young people aging out of foster care. Read this article to learn more about aging out of foster care statistics and solutions.

This guide provides detailed resources on how you can support foster kids in Oregon by providing new items, supporting foster programs, volunteering, or by becoming a foster parent.

Check out the Project 48 highlight on KGW!