Quality time in nature is one of Venture Land Trust’s greatest gifts to the community for a sustainable future. Yardi-supported nonprofit Ventura Land Trust, established in 2003 in Ventura, Calif., connects the community with educational programs about nature and fosters the next generation of environmental stewards. Then, in 2009, Ventura Wild was established as the primary education initiative that supports youth aged two to 13 years old with meaningful outdoor learning experiences. Serving nearly a thousand students annually, Ventura Wild’s programs connect children to nature by nurturing awareness, knowledge, skills, and stewardship in the natural world. “With the support from funders, scholarships are made available throughout the year for any of our sessions-long programs and summer camps,” said Sarah ‘Trudy’ Trudeau, education manager for Venture Land Trust. In addition to Venture Wild, Venture Land Trust offers another educational initiative called Nature by Design that provides subsidized field trips and session-long programs for Title-1 schools in Ventura County. These programs are designed, often in line with the classroom’s objectives, to connect children to nature through hands-on learning experiences related to the natural sciences. “By balancing the school day with time in the outdoors, students return to the classroom happier, healthier and with a great sense of motivation,” explained Trudeau. Ventura Land Trust hopes to expand and grow its scholarship fund to support more families with financial assistance. With the help of Yardi funding, it can offer more subsidized programs for local schools and underserved communities to create excellent access to the outdoors. “We are incredibly grateful for the funding received from Yardi! It has greatly supported our ability to provide scholarships and connect more families to nature in our community,” said Trudeau. Reaping Native Plants Being in reciprocity with nature is a key part of Ventura Land Trust’s environmental programs. In addition to modeling Leave No Trace principles, it facilitates stewardship projects to encourage children to give back and take part in restoring wild spaces. In 2022, its preschool-aged students supported a large planting project at one of Ventura Land Trust preserves. With the support from its team, these eager three-year-olds carefully chose their native plant to place into the earth. Students were encouraged to water and care for their plants each week that followed. Today, many of these students are still in these programs. Now five years old, Wesley is delighted to see that the Black Walnut tree (Juglans californica) he planted has grown taller than him! Volunteer Opportunities Join the community and Ventura Land Trust with volunteer opportunities throughout the year. Those interested in leadership opportunities and internships for teens and young adults can apply here or contact Ventura Land Trust at (805)-643-8044 extension 4 or [email protected]. Find future non-profit profiles at https://www.yardi.com/blog/category/giving. Yardi is Energized for Good! Visit www.yardi.org for more about our philanthropic...

Children thrive when supported by a strong family and community throughout their lives. Carpinteria Children’s Project (CCP), a Yardi-supported nonprofit, has been a beacon of hope in our community since its establishment in 2009. With a focus on diverse programs and services, CCP has actively supported successful children throughout Carpinteria, Calif. The organization’s local knowledge and expertise have been crucial in addressing the Carpinteria families’ unique challenges, ensuring its support remains relevant and effective. The Family Resource Center (FRC) serves as the heart of its network, providing families with essential support and managing referrals to and from partners. The FRC offers diverse programs and services by harnessing the power of family as a child’s first teacher and advocate, including parent education classes, child development activities, and support groups with a warm and caring approach. CCP is a dedicated team, along with its partner agencies, that collaborates to address families’ holistic needs. From coordinating with other social services agencies to its Promotoras de Salud program, it provides comprehensive support for family well-being. Its Early Childhood Education program offers care for children ages 18 months to five years old, ensuring a well-rounded support system for families. “From outdoor classrooms to dual language immersion programs, we provide a nurturing environment and strong foundation for children to succeed in the rest of their educational journey,” said Ari Rodriguez, director of development for Carpinteria Children’s Project. CCP strategies for future success include clearly defined organizational purpose, programs, impact, and delivery for programs that suit the community’s needs. Additionally, CCP will maintain financial stability and sustainability and support CCP’s board, leadership and staff teams. Funding from Yardi has allowed CCP to invest in programs and immediate support that mitigates toxic stress from Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), reduce domestic abuse, and increase the likelihood that children thrive academically, physically and socially. “We are grateful for Yardi’s support these last four years. $10,000 gifts have allowed us to continue our services during the pandemic and continually enhance/improve the services we provide in response to the community’s growing needs,” expressed Rodriguez. Ashley’s Story Ashley is a young mother with a toddler and a baby. The Carpinteria Health Clinic referred the family to the Carpinteria Children’s Project. During a routine postpartum screening, Ashley reported she had experienced abuse, both as a child and later from a previous partner. A Family Resource Center coach met with Ashley immediately after her doctor visits, establishing a warm connection and offering the opportunity to participate in a few structured visits together to address strategies for mitigating toxic stress. The following week, Ashley visited the Family Resource Center to meet with a family advocate coach to assess her short- and long-term needs and make an action plan. The coach also connected her with referrals for a few items that needed support. Ashley has joined the Parents as Teachers program, which means she will also receive a series of home visits focused on helping her understand and practice her role in child development and literacy until her youngest is four years old. This same coach will continue to follow up with Ashley to ensure she’s meeting the goals she set for herself as part of her long-term plan, which includes pursuing additional education. She’s already completed an application to qualify for a childcare scholarship for her older daughter. Volunteer Opportunities Carpinteria Children’s Project offers several volunteer opportunities in its monthly food bank, at various fundraising events and in the classroom. They also plan special projects for groups or teams. If interested, reach out to Ari Rodriguez at [email protected]. “Even though Carpinteria can seem close, accessing Santa Barbara-based services can be very difficult for our families without cars. Having CCP as an immediate source of support and a connector to additional resources makes a huge difference to families,” explained Rodriquez. Find future non-profit profiles at https://www.yardi.com/blog/category/giving. Yardi is Energized for Good! Visit www.yardi.org for more about our...

Hydrocephalus is a neurological brain condition that, currently, over one million people in the United States live with, and one out of 770 babies develops each year. Hydrocephalus Association (HA), a Yardi-supported nonprofit, brings the community together virtually and in person through WALK and community networks. Established in 1983 in Bethesda, MD, it supports those in need, including patients, caregivers, and physicians. With an extensive list of neurosurgeons in its directory, it offers a vast library of resources that span from basic information about hydrocephalus to guides for teachers. In addition, HA provides a mobile app, HydroAssistTM, to patients and a patient-powered registry to collect essential data for researchers studying hydrocephalus. Currently, the Hydrocephalus Association is in the middle of a three-year strategic plan: Find and Engage the Hydrocephalus Community Fund and promote high-impact research to advance care, treatments, prevention, and ultimately finding a cure for Hydrocephalus Support and advocate for those impacted by hydrocephalus at every age and stage in life Improve the care and management of hydrocephalus patients by the medical community Funding from Yardi helps HA meet all of these goals. From funding the talented staff needed to execute its strategy and run programs to the impactful research that is changing the future of Hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus Association’s key component to its success is its strong and committed Board of Directors and the devoted and skilled volunteer force that partners with staff to run its programs. Most notably, all its 40+ WALKS nationwide are led by volunteer leaders with minimal staff support. “Intense gratitude” is how Carissa Bentley and Melissa Arato, co-chairs for the Long Island WALK to End Hydrocephalus, reacted to Yardi’s support. They continued, “While every supporter matters to our progress, committed, long-term contributors such as Yardi help us get even farther and inspire other individuals and organizations to give however they can.” Return on Investment Over the last 14 years, HA has invested more than $14 million in hydrocephalus research. Its funded scientists and clinical networks have secured an additional $74 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Defense (DOD), and other foundations for a 500% ROI! Volunteer Opportunities The Hydrocephalus Association always seeks volunteers to help throughout the year or during WALK events. Please get in touch with Carissa at (646) 235-1419. “These volunteer partnerships are core to HA’s success, helping us to stretch every dollar and contributing to furthering our shared mission,” they said. The next WALK for Long Island is: Sunday, Oct 6, 2024 Starts 9:00 am Belmont Lake State Park North Babylon, Exit 38 Southern State Pkwy NY 11704 Advocacy is critical for HA to continue and increase government funding of hydrocephalus research. Learn more and sign up here. Find future non-profit profiles at https://www.yardi.com/blog/category/giving. Yardi is Energized for Good! Visit www.yardi.org for more about our philanthropic...

Mental illness can touch anyone, regardless of their race, culture, income, age, or level of education. It affects one in four adults and one in ten children each year. Turning Point Foundation (TPF), established in 1988 in Ventura, Calif., is on a mission to improve the quality of life for adults experiencing serious mental illness, addiction, lack of housing and inadequate physical health care. TPF provides health navigation services, rehabilitation, wellness and recovery programs, and temporary, transitional and permanent housing in Ventura County. Turning Point Foundation plans to expand its critical community-based and client-centered mental health and rehabilitation services, as well as an array of supported housing (temporary, transitional, and permanent), housing and health navigation, and other support services, to 3,500 individuals annually. TPF is partnering with the Ventura County Criminal Justice System to support mental health treatment, substance use disorder treatment, and diversion programs for people in the criminal justice system with mental health and substance use disorders. TPF aims to improve the life trajectory of adults in the criminal system with housing support and evidence-based practices. “This program strives to reduce recidivism by fostering the principles of restorative justice through leveraging community partnership and collaboration, targeting populations who are underserved and inappropriately served through mental health and substance use service providers, or overrepresented in the criminal justice systems or experiencing or at risk of homelessness,” said Josh Carsman marketing events and fund development for TPF & Rena Sepulveda, contract and grants director for TPF. Ventura County has a significant need for adult resident facilities and care for the elderly “board and cares.” Many of the existing Board and Care facilities have closed in recent years and continue to close as the need grows. Next year, TPF will take over operations of an existing Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (The Elms), with a new name, Willow Terrace—a 56-bed-assisted living facility for adults 60 and older with severe mental illnesses. “Willow Terrace further exemplifies the dynamic benefits of leveraging public, private, and non-profit partnerships to improve the quality of life for some of the most vulnerable in our community,” they explained. TPF’s programs address the housing and health needs of mentally ill adults, moving from homelessness to housing, while linking them to healthcare, employment, and other resources. Turning Point Foundation will additionally grow the following programs and services: Street Outreach and Engagement: Provides access to immediate and basic needs and builds rapport and trusting relationships to help the homeless develop a housing plan linked to healthcare and other services. Homeless2Home Rapid Re-Housing: offers flexible financial assistance (rent, security deposit, moving costs) and case management services, including health navigation, housing location and stabilization services to house homeless mentally ill persons in Ventura County and continue to provide supportive services as needed after being housed. Last year, 55 homeless adults with mental health challenges received these services, obtaining permanent housing. Between 2023 and 2024, 72 homeless were provided flexible rental subsidies and voluntary supportive services, successfully obtaining permanent housing and ending homelessness. Veterans Transitional Housing Program: is in partnership with the Veterans Administration and, through six months, serves homeless veterans experiencing PTSD and other mental health conditions through assistance with obtaining permanent housing, income, medical attention, substance abuse treatment and mental health services. A first of its kind in Ventura County, since becoming operational in October 2015, over 500 veterans have been assisted through this program, with the majority successfully obtaining permanent housing in the community. Growing Works: is an innovative employment training, horticulture therapy, and wellness program that provides supportive employment through a wholesale native plants nursery serving mentally ill adults. Many program participants are homeless. Watch the video to learn more about Grow Works and TPF’s veteran’s stories after being housed. Yardi funds are a critical component of the private community support needed to fill the gap not covered by the government for the homeless continuum of services to assist mentally ill...

For over 30 years, this organization has worked country-wide and partnered with American Airlines so sick children can get the services and help they need. The Children’s Flight of Hope was established in 1991 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Since its inception, it has been unwavering in its dedication to reducing the health disparities for children grappling with rare and intricate medical conditions. This commitment continues to inspire all who encounter it. “We believe distance and cost of travel should never be barriers to life-changing and life-saving care. We, therefore, provide commercial air travel for very ill children and a parent or guardian to centers of healthcare excellence in the United States,” explained Pat Nelli, CEO and president of Children’s Flight of Hope. From its headquarters and only office in Raleigh, Children’s Flight of Hope serves children from across the country and 30 other countries. Families in medical crises face many emotional and financial burdens, and their paths can be long and challenging on many levels. Once medical and financial needs are verified, Children’s Flight of Hope eases these burdens by providing flights to specialists as often as a family may need. Children’s Flight of Hope has provided more than 100 flights for children. In 2023, flight volume dramatically increased, and in May 2023, Children’s Flight of Hope had over 200 flights. In February 2024, Children’s Flight of Hope had an organizational high of 259 flights! Therefore, its top priority is to ensure they welcome new families and serve them throughout their healthcare journey. Children’s Flight of Hope is working to focus on expansion to its staff and board members and committees, so they are keenly focused on growth and ensuring resources keep pace. Other areas they are focused on are technology improvements and target marketing. Yardi funding from last year provided 15 round trips for children to receive critically needed care and for the accompanying guardian. “Yardi’s donation was an unexpected and welcome surprise and meant so much during this time of unprecedented growth. It is one of the examples we use in our development committee and marketing conversations regarding the endless opportunities when we expand awareness, share our impactful story, and invite others to join in bringing this care within reach,” said Nelli. She continued, “It has also been an example we learned from: Are we doing enough to thank our corporate partners? During this busy time, we must be sure Yardi and others know the depth of our gratitude.” Nova’s Journey At just six months old, Nova was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare pediatric cancer that affects less than 1,000 children a year in the US. Through travel to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, Nova had surgeries and a variety of treatments, and one year later, doctors shared the powerful words that she was NED—no evidence of disease. After initially taking 44 flights provided by Children’s Flight of Hope, Nova now travels several times a year for a clinical vaccine trial to ensure she stays cancer-free. “And thanks to the kindness of many, Children’s Flight of Hope will be there for Nova and her family every time they turn to us,” expressed Nelli. Volunteer Opportunities Children’s Flight of Hope has limited volunteer opportunities due to the nature of their work. However, they are open to volunteer opportunities at its three local events and volunteers for its committee and board leadership. One event is Hops for Hope, which pairs 30 breweries with 30 companies in a team competition to raise funds for its mission and to create a signature beer. This culminates with a public festival in September. Company teams usually have at least ten members and are led by a team captain. For event involvement, please get in touch with Heather Miller, Director of Community Engagement at [email protected]. “We are committed to taking thoughtful and strategic steps to expand our national awareness and...

Many suffer the stigma and negative perceptions surrounding mental health. However, this association is breaking the barriers so individuals and families do not experience delays, leading to long-term consequences. The Association for Mental Health and Wellness (MHAW) is committed to empowering and inspiring people of all communities to identify, pursue and sustain healthy, meaningful lives. Founded in 1990 in Ronkonkoma, New York, the association promotes mental health as a critical part of overall wellness. “We advocate for prevention services for all, early identification and intervention for those at risk, integrated services, care and treatment for those who need them, and recovery as the goal,” said Colleen Merlo, chief executive officer for The Association for Mental Health and Wellness. The Association for Mental Health and Wellness is committed to closing the gap between need and access to care. Unfortunately, more than half of America is living with a mental illness that does not receive treatment. In addition, more than half of America’s youth living with major depression do not receive the proper care. MHAW is distressed by this data and continues to fight disparities faced by individuals living with mental health challenges in connection with timely and appropriate support. To achieve health services to individuals in a reasonable manner, The Association for Mental Health and Wellness aims to expand access to its services by ensuring they have skilled staff ready to accept referrals, build its continuum of services and create pathways for individuals to know about the services available across the system of mental health care and offering quick response and assessments for new clients. MHAW will prioritize:  ·       Program Growth  ·        Program Excellence  ·        Rebranding and consolidated messaging  ·        Bring Crisis Residence online  ·        Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging training and activities   ·        Establish and maintain leadership excellence  ·        Recruit and retain excellent staff  ·        Launch the Central Access department Funding from Yardi helps improve access to care by supporting enhanced public awareness of the signs and symptoms and available services and resources. The first step to accessing care is knowing that help is needed. Funding also helps support enhancements to MHAW’s website to improve and expand screenings for psychological distress. The struggle is real Last year, Jasmine, one of MHAW’s educators, was visiting a local high school when she noticed a young woman stayed behind and seemed to want to talk but was challenging to engage with. When the bell rang, she rushed out of the room. The next day, MHAW received a phone call through its Information and Referral line, and the caller explained she had heard Jasmine’s presentation about the signs and symptoms of emotional distress and was afraid to talk. After taking a screening on its website, she realized she needed help. “The screenings on MHAW’s website have the power to save lives, and with improved functionality, they can expand their ability to reach and connect people to care,” explained Merlo. Since that day, the caller has connected with MHAW several more times, and they came to learn that she had lost a friend to suicide and was struggling with feelings of guilt and shame. Due to the screening she took on MHAW’s website, she realized she was experiencing depression and needed help to navigate her complex emotions.  This screening is a huge step in this woman’s long journey toward healing. “Yardi’s donations help many more people take that first step,” said Merlo. Volunteer Opportunities The Association for Mental Health and Wellness has several volunteer opportunities in their two food pantries, a soup kitchen and an organic healing garden. Volunteer work includes stocking food along with greeting and serving diverse community members. Regarding the healing garden, MHAW welcomes volunteers on Saturdays from 10 am -12 pm to help with planting, watering, weeding and harvesting food for the upcoming week. In addition, MHAW’s Recovery and Wellness Center needs some remodeling. Volunteers can help paint and create enhancements for clients to have a...

The Fishing Foundation, established in 2010 in Berea, Ohio, is enriching lives through the sport of fishing. The program structure includes classroom-style instruction and training in four areas: aquatic education, casting, water safety, and identifying local fish species, as well as fishing from shore in a safe and secure environment. Moreover, The Fishing Foundation is making a significant impact in promoting environmental conservation, a cause that we can all be proud of and take responsibility for. Since its establishment in 2010 and the introduction of free fishing events in 2012, The Fishing Foundation has been a catalyst for personal growth and empowerment. It has touched the lives of over two thousand teens, youth, and adults, giving them a unique opportunity to connect with others, commune with nature, and expand their environmental experience. The day is filled with learning casting techniques, rigging, knot-tying, fish species, the importance of sustaining the environment, and fishing from shore, all of which contribute to their personal development and empowerment, inspiring them to reach new heights. At each fishing event, participants receive a rod and reel, bait, tackle, and hands-on training by certified fishing instructors, The Fishing Foundation Souvenir T-shirt, refreshments, and lunch. All organizational staff and essential volunteers are “certified” fishing instructors under the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’s “Passport to Fishing” program. The Fishing Foundation’s popular book published in 2022, “Learn to Fish: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginning Anglers,” co-written by The Fishing Foundation co-founders Dennis Knowles and Gail Grizzell, is a 100+ page instructional resource and is given complimentary at all the free fishing events. Content from the book will be distributed across multiple platforms, including in-person programming, online, web, and social media, to introduce youth and teens to fishing, expand their knowledge of sport and encourage them to enjoy the great outdoors while learning how to fish. “We are continuously innovating and evolving our programs to address the evolving needs and challenges facing our environment and communities. Whether it is through conservation initiatives, educational workshops, or community outreach events, we are committed to making a lasting and positive impact on both people and the planet,” said Dennis James Knowles, president of The Fishing Foundation.  In the Media The Fishing Foundation partnered with Signal Cleveland, an online newsroom in northeast Ohio, to introduce a syndicated-style comic strip titled Hooked. The strip features characters from the book who love to fish and decide to form a fishing club in Cleveland, Ohio. Together, through humorous adventures, they explore ways of becoming better anglers, the environment and conservation and the joy of being outside. “The comic strip premiered in September 2023, and it continues to appear monthly in Signal Cleveland, which has a reach of nearly 10,000 subscribers,” said Knowles.   The Fishing Foundation plans to partner with more community newspapers and online newsrooms throughout the area. In addition, The Fishing Foundation hopes to provide more venues to connect content to the end-user and complete a new coloring book with fish species and their habitat designed for children ages two to eight. Funding from Yardi provides underserved children and families an opportunity for environmental education they usually couldn’t access. “When children are exposed to educational programs and activities like fishing, they will realize the importance of protecting the natural environment and essentially act as ‘ambassadors of nature’ in their communities,” explained Knowles. By teaching young people a new skill or offering a peaceful activity, funds help the foundation spread the love of fishing and the benefits it brings. “The Fishing Foundation is incredibly grateful for the generous donation received from Yardi. Your contribution is instrumental in helping us further our mission at The Fishing Foundation. Your financial support means a great deal to us, and we are excited about the opportunities funding provides to expand our programming reach and make a positive difference in marginalized communities,” expressed Knowles. King W. The Fishing Foundation is there...

Serving 32 counties in Colorado and the entire state of Wyoming, Food Bank of the Rockies ignites the power of community to nourish people facing hunger. Since its establishment in 1978 in Denver, the Food Bank of the Rockies has been a steadfast pillar in the fight against hunger. As the largest hunger relief organization in the Rocky Mountain region, it is a testament to its commitment and ability to address the enormous hunger challenge. Distributing upwards of 196,000 meals daily, the Food Bank of the Rockies puts the power of the community to work for its neighbors. Providing more than just a meal, this organization gives hope and opens a future for its clients. “Because when you can’t provide for your family today, it’s hard to even think about tomorrow,” said Charlene Moser, corporate partnerships manager at Food Bank for the Rockies. Ninety-six cents of every dollar go directly to distribution. Food Bank of the Rockies has four distribution centers and coordinates with more than 800 Hunger Relief Partners throughout Colorado and Wyoming, acting as a distribution hub for food, essentials and logistical resources. It also operates its direct programs, providing for those in need through its Mobile Pantries, Food for Kids programs and home-delivery services for older adults. The Food Bank of the Rockies is focused on fresh fruits and vegetables, cultural prevalences and expanding its Food for Health program to focus on community members living with chronic diseases such as pre-diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Those suffering from diseases will receive a box of food and produce delivered to their homes weekly for an entire year to help them maintain or restore their health. Every donation makes a difference! The community’s need for food is still higher than pre-COVID levels. The food bank spends more than three times as much monthly to purchase food than before. Thanks to its robust purchasing power, Food Rescue Program, government allotments, donations, and lower bulk pricing, one dollar helps distribute enough food for three meals. Yardi’s funding and volunteer work have made a tremendous difference for the Food Bank of the Rockies. “Since 2020, Yardi has donated more than $110,000 to Food Bank of the Rockies, enabling us to provide more than 330,000 meals throughout Colorado and Wyoming. Your impact is meaningful, and we are grateful! We could not do what we do without amazing partners like Yardi,” explained Moser. Happy Clients The following stories are from some neighbors of the Food Bank of the Rockies who receive food assistance through its mobile pantry or Food for Health program. Sam: Sam is a patient at Denver Indian Health and Family Services receiving treatment for his diabetes. Sam shared that food expenses have been challenging for a daughter to care for, even with SNAP benefits. His medical provider connected him with the Food for Health Program to help with both his diabetes and lessen the burden of food insecurity. “We’ve been living just off the bare necessities lately, and this really helps to prepare meals and stuff on a weekly basis. Sometimes, I have leftovers, use my food stamps, and make a meal out of all that.” Dasja and her mother, Sabrina. Dasja and her mother, Sabrina, live near one another and do everything together. That includes getting food at their local food pantry, a Hunger Relief Partner of Food Bank of the Rockies. Dasja has Chron’s disease, is on disability, and is a stay-at-home mom for her seven-year-old daughter. She shared that the food they get to choose from the food pantry helps, especially when it comes to managing her Chron’s disease with a specific diet. “I’m always trying to cook different meals, so this really helps out,” said Dasja. “The meat is good because you can read the [recipes and instructions they include], portion it, and freeze it. They have fish, which is good because that’s what I...

Restoration and reconciliation for people experiencing homelessness are what happens at this Yardi-supported nonprofit. Orange County Rescue Mission is a faith-based life transformation program that provides on-campus housing, basic needs, and comprehensive services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Founded in 1963 in Trustin, Calif, this organization is 100 percent privately funded and has nine campuses, including: Tustin Veterans Outpost Alumni Housing Hope Harbor Village of Hope- providing transitional and long-term housing and care for teens at risk of homelessness. Double R Ranch In 2023, Orange County Rescue Mission introduced the Double R Ranch program, a unique initiative combining nature’s and animals’ healing effects with hands-on skill training. This horse and livestock ranch provides a unique experience for men, women, and children and serves as a weekend retreat for Village of Hope families. “In 2024, we are looking forward to expanding our reach to more families by bringing more men to this program and running more family camps and programs for teens,” said Jeana Baltierra, donor relations manager for Orange County Rescue Mission. Thanks to the generous funding from Yardi, the Double R Ranch program can operate and directly serve the needs of people experiencing homelessness. Watch how impactful 2023 was for Orange County Rescue Mission. “We are so moved by the generosity of Yardi and their partnership to help people experiencing homelessness in our community,” said Baltierra. Joey and Sierra’s Journey Joey and Sierra were living in a downward spiral with a life of drugs and experiencing homelessness while sleeping in a church parking lot. Trying to work as hard as they could for their children, ten years of heavy drug use affected this ability. When a drunk driver struck Joey and his oldest daughter, Joey ended up in the hospital in a coma for two weeks, and his daughter was killed instantly. “We should have noticed that as a gift from God,” Sierra explains. “But we didn’t know how to grieve, so we fell into addiction. After losing our daughter, we lost ourselves.” Unfortunately, Joey and Sierra soon hit rock bottom. They turned to drugs, spending all their money on drugs, and they couldn’t provide a stable home for their other two children. Joey and Sierra decided to rebuild their lives. They arrived at the Orange County Rescue Mission, where they found security, allowing them to take steps toward long-term stability. “Joey and Sierra are finding healing via therapy, rehabilitation programs, a loving community, and a deep relationship with Jesus Christ that drugs cannot provide,” said Baltierra. Now, they are at the final stage of their program—working seniors who are both employed and saving money and will soon move to the alumni housing program. Learn more about Joey and Sierra’s journey.   Volunteer Opportunities Orange County Rescue Mission has volunteer opportunities from Monday through Sunday to help with daily operations. Visit its website for more information or contact its volunteer team at [email protected] or (714) 441-8089. Find future non-profit profiles at https://www.yardi.com/blog/category/giving. Yardi is Energized for Good! Visit www.yardi.org for more about our philanthropic...