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Casa Youth Shelter
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Our Mission and Legacy
    • Residential Shelter Care Program
    • Our People
    • Our Generous Donors
    • Our Stories
    • Our Impact
    • Success Stories
    • Financials
    • Schedule a Tour
    • A Typical Day at Casa Youth Shelter
    • Newsroom
  • Our Work
    • Counseling
      • Individual Counseling
      • Group Counseling
        • Supplemental Care Groups
      • Family Counseling
      • Aftercare Counseling
    • Non-Residential Services
    • Parenting Classes
    • Case Management
    • Community Outreach
    • Youth Leadership Program
      • Reality Party: What You Didn’t Know
    • Partner Referrals
    • Our Essential Partners
      • Frequently Asked Questions
      • Tejani Family Scholarship
    • Strategic Plan 2020-2025
  • Get Involved
    • Subscribe to Newsletter
    • Join Our Volunteer Corps
    • Undergraduate Fieldwork
    • Graduate Student MFT Trainee Opportunities
  • Support
    • Ways to Give
    • Corporate Giving
    • Estate Giving
    • In-Kind Giving
    • Event Sponsorship
    • Wish List
    • Our Generous Donors
  • Events
  • Get Help
  • Donate

Alumni Spotlight: Zion

Alumni Spotlight: Zion

casayouthshelter
March 9, 2020
Uncategorized
Casa Youth Shelter Alumni Spotlight: Zion

Meet Zion, a past resident of Casa Youth Shelter’s Residential Shelter Care Program.

 

Zion, a sophomore at California State University, Fullerton, is studying Theater and is currently a candidate for the prestigious BFA in Theatre Arts with an acting concentration. Read on to learn more about Zion’s experience at Casa Youth Shelter and his views on hope and adversity.

 

What would you like to share with us about your experience at Casa Youth Shelter?

I came to Casa Youth Shelter to escape an abusive home. The experience was surreal at first, because I didn’t have to look over my shoulder anymore, and I could just be myself. What I remember most is the kindness of the staff. In particular, I remember the Youth Supervisors: Rae, who was the most comforting person in the world to me; Lea, who ignited hope in me and taught me that I don’t have to give up; Kelly, who helped me realize I could trust everyone here; and Anthony, who I had wished my father was like.

 

What advice would you give to a teen in a similar situation?

To not be afraid to ask for help or to talk to a friend. It took some time, but I opened up to a friend and her mom was able to help. She is the one who referred me to Casa Youth Shelter.

 

How has your life changed in the time that’s passed since your stay at Casa Youth Shelter?

More than anything, I want to share that I am happy. I didn’t think I would make it past 16 or 18. I thought I would die at home or by suicide. Now, I am grateful and happy for the good and the bad. Through adversity, I learned how to brace myself and soldier on. Hope used to be dangerous, because wanting led to disappointment, but it is hope that kept me alive. I know my worth now and I’m not going to let anything in my path stop me.

 

Who is someone you admire, and why?

I admire [Youth Supervisor] Anthony. He is positive every day, no matter what’s going on. He is a wonderful paternal figure. Every time he saw me, he would check to see how I was doing. When I visit, he still checks to make sure I’m okay. He cares. What’s more inspiring is that he does it out of his heart. He doesn’t have to be here, and he goes above and beyond. He is selfless, which I aspire to be every day.

 

What are three words that describe you?

Hopeful, persistent and self-assured.

 

Zion is just one of the many who have come through our doors seeking a safe place and support in a time of crisis. His story is inspirational to all of us and a reminder of the potential of every youth that comes to Casa Youth Shelter for help. Learn more about our Residential Shelter Care Program here.

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About Us

A safe place to stay. A warm bed. A hot meal. Someone to talk to. Nuestra casa es su casa.
Casa Youth Shelter is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing emergency temporary shelter for youth aged 12-17 who are homeless, abused, or struggling with crisis.

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Call 24-Hour Helpline
(800) 914-CASA (2272)

Or Text (833) 217-5758

  • (562) 594-6825 or (714) 995-8601
  • 10911 Reagan St., Los Alamitos, CA 90720



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Support Casa Youth Shelter with your gift to Long Beach Gives on 09.24.20

We’re proud to participate in Long Beach Gives, a one day giving campaign to encourage support and advocacy for select organizations in our local area.

Help us reach our goal of $50,000!

With all of us pulling together, we can make sure youth in crisis get the food, shelter and support services they need.

Give Now

(You will be redirected to the Long Beach Gives website to make your gift.)
SearchPostsLogin
Thursday, 2, Feb
CYS Announces New CEO, Jessica Hubbard
Tuesday, 16, Mar
Intern Spotlight: Loryn Stephens
Monday, 9, Mar
Alumni Spotlight: Zion
Friday, 10, Jan
Volunteer Spotlight: Toniann Chafin
Friday, 3, May
Volunteer Spotlight: Dave Basok
Tuesday, 16, Apr
Caldwell Trust Helps Casa Youth Shelter Meet the Needs of Kids

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