Project Youth+

09/01/2026

🚗💙 A vehicle can provide transportation, but financial confidence can last a lifetime!

Project Youth+ GED alum Evangelina Gutirrez used her Individual Development Account funds toward a down payment on a vehicle she had been hoping to purchase. Along the way, she gained valuable budgeting, saving, and decision-making skills that will support her future.

“This program is absolutely amazing. It gives you hope and teaches you valuable financial skills and decision-making that I will use every day for the rest of my life.”

Congratulations, Evangelina! We are so proud of everything you have accomplished and excited to see where the road takes you! ✨

08/31/2026

🚗💙 Independence can open the door to endless possibilities!

For Belen Arroyo Mendoza, an Eagle Point High School student, participating in the Project Youth+ Individual Development Account program made purchasing a vehicle possible and provided the freedom to get to school and plan for the future without relying on others for transportation.

“I finally feel fulfilled and completely independent.”

Belen also shared her gratitude for Orlando, who guided her through the process and helped her get to school.

We are so proud of Belen and grateful to help students overcome barriers and take the wheel of their futures! ✨

08/28/2026

🚗💙 How much money does it take to change a life? For Alexzandra Sitko, a Rogue River High School student, the answer began with an opportunity to save.

Without a car, Alexzandra could not get to work. Without a job, buying a car felt impossible. With support from Project Youth+ staff Kat, Kevin, and Tonya, she secured a part-time internship, opened an Individual Development Account, and developed the financial skills needed to save toward a vehicle.

Today, Alexzandra has a car that allows her to work and pursue something she once thought she might have to give up: college.

“To me, both the financial skills I’ve learned and having a car are truly life-changing.”

We are so proud of Alexzandra and grateful to help students overcome barriers and build brighter futures! ✨

08/28/2026

We are incredibly grateful to partner with the Josephine County Food Bank for this month’s Back to School Community Food Drive benefiting Project Youth+ students!

Community members can help ensure local students have convenient snacks to keep them fueled and focused throughout the school day. Requested donations include individually wrapped granola bars, crackers, fruit snacks, trail mix, snack size chips, instant noodle cups, Rice Krispies Treats, and Goldfish crackers.

Thank you to the Josephine County Food Bank and everyone who donates for supporting our students as they begin a new school year. Your generosity makes a meaningful difference! 💚📚🍎

08/28/2026

08/27/2026

🎨 Creativity was in full swing at our graphic design and heat press workshop! PY+ participants designed and created custom coffee mugs and T-shirts, turning their ideas into one-of-a-kind creations while exploring new skills and having fun.

We love seeing our students bring their creativity to life! 👕☕✨

08/26/2026

🚗🎓 Big dreams become achievable with the right support!

Forest Glover, a Hidden Valley High School student, used funds from the Project Youth+ Individual Development Account program toward a down payment on a car while setting aside savings for future educational opportunities.

“It made deciding to seek further education possible, easier, and achievable with dedication. Something I hadn’t expected to be possible when I first entered high school.”

We are proud of Forest for investing in a brighter future and grateful to help students turn their goals into reality! 💙