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Congrats UFC College Grads!

We want to shout out our incredible college graduates! Each of these young people have worked incredibly hard to graduate from college and we couldn’t be more proud of our kids.

Your achievements inspire us every day and we are so proud of ...

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Tuesday, February 13th, 2024 By UFC

This month, our education team honored Black History Month by taking our middle and high school scholars to the ‘Black College Expo’ at the LA Convention Center. Our youth got to explore the possibility of attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities and speak with representatives from many institutions. This experience allowed our scholars to envision themselves …

Tuesday, February 13th, 2024 By UFC

“Last year, cannabis was the drug most widely used during pregnancy in the U.S., according to the federal government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration…Does legalization cause parenting impairment, family dysfunction, and negative child outcomes?” Dive into what the legalization of recreational cannabis in Minnesota and other states means for the evolution of our …

Tuesday, February 13th, 2024 By UFC

Introducing our Hero of the Month, Franco Vega! Over two decades ago, Franco kickstarted his journey by teaching transition-age foster youth and establishing an employment haven for recovering addicts and the homeless.

In 2011, he founded The RightWay Foundation, a game-changing program tackling trauma and job hurdles for foster youth through mental health services and job readiness …

Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024 By UFC

A recent LA County initiative tackles the financial burdens faced by parents within the child welfare system. It addresses the unfair demand for low-income parents to fund reunification services, a hurdle that often punishes poverty and hinders family restoration. Discover how this pivotal change aims to keep families together and support those most in need.

Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024 By UFC

In December, our holiday gift drive achieved remarkable success! Every one of our youth received gifts on their wish list. This was made possible thanks to the generous contributions from a diverse group of supporters. We extend our gratitude to Full Picture, whose assistance secured a shoutout from Heidi Klum and Sofia Vergara and tapped …

Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024 By UFC

Last year, we relaunched our volunteer program after a long hiatus due to COVID-19. A total of 55 volunteers came back strong, participating in events such as College and Career Day, Next Gen Trivia, Thanksgiving Dinner, holiday gift-wrapping session, Education and Pathways holiday parties, and more. Our fabulous volunteers helped wherever they were needed!

Each one …

Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024 By UFC

Karen’s journey with United Friends began a decade ago when she was fourteen. Her involvement in the Youth Ambassador Program has been more than just a role—it’s been her way of connecting with and contributing to a community that has grown to be a significant part of her life.

Karen, thank you for being such a …

Thursday, December 14th, 2023 By UFC

Last month, we held a Thanksgiving celebration for our Pathways residents at one of our housing sites. Staff, NextGen Board members, and our youth came together to connect, laugh, and share a meal. Together, we celebrated friendship, cherished our community, and reflected on the meaning of gratitude.

Thursday, December 14th, 2023 By UFC

Meet Laila!

For over 7 years, since her middle school days, Laila has been an integral part of the UFC family. Her passion lies in advocating for foster youth and sharing her own journey to inspire others. As a Youth Ambassador, Laila offers vital insights and a personal perspective on the challenges and triumphs of transitioning …

Monday, November 27th, 2023 By UFC

A huge heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended our 2023 Fall Gala! It was so inspiring and humbling to see so many show up in bright, bold, and beautiful colors in support of our incredible Brass Ring Honorree, Anastasia Soare, and ultimately our foster youth!

With your help, we were able to raise $700,000, …