Olive Crest - Strong Families, Safe Kids

This year, our generous community allowed us to pass out over 4,300 backpacks to kids and teens. Dylan, pictured here, was one of them who started third grade with a brand new Spider-Man backpack and all the supplies he needs for a successful year. Olive Crest, CEO, Donald Verleur even stopped by to help him pick it out! ???? Thank you to all our partners and supporters who made this year’s Backpack Drive a SUCCESS! #OliveCrest #StrongFamilies #SafeKids #BackToSchool

Today, we honor the heroes, remember the fallen, and hold in our hearts all who were impacted by the tragic events of 9/11. As we reflect on the power of unity and resilience, we are reminded of the strength of community in times of crisis ?? ??

Thanks to the incredible support of U.S. Bank stories like Susie's are made possible! After a lifetime of instability in the child welfare system, Susie found a safe space at Olive Crest where she could focus on her goals. Now thriving in a stable environment, Susie is balancing college, basketball, and her dream of transferring to UCLA to pursue a career in social work. We're so proud of her resilience and determination to succeed ?

Adalind's Story "I know that God has a plan for me." #fostercare #healing #mentalhealth #olivecrest #strongfamilies #safekids #fosteryouth #joinourteam #makeadifference #lovewhereyouwork #volunteer #werehiring #donatetoday

For the past 10 years, Gaudalia and her daughters have been cherished members of our Olive Crest family - benefitting from our tutoring services, gaining academic confidence and achieving personal growth ?? Her story exemplifies the strength and resilience of families striving for a positive future. To the families, friends, and champions that have stood with us - THANK YOU! Being able to support families in this way would not be possible without your commitment and dedication.

?? Every 2 minutes a child is trafficked for sexual exploitation in the United States. To address this issue, we've teamed up with @goyacares to do a series of trainings across the Western United States to show their video, LIGHT, as well as discuss the signs of human trafficking and the dangers of online exploitation. "By raising awareness and providing preventative education, we can be the light that helps survivors and prevents future victims, effectively stopping human trafficking," said Olive Crest CEO, Donald Verleur. To learn more about this movement, visit our website https://buff.ly/4cVWvUC

"We always call it a circus. Busy, loud ... but fun, though," Holly Knutsen shared after she and her husband, Rob, welcomed AJ and Bentley into their family, forever ?? AJ and Bentley were so excited to see themselves in the local newspaper! You can read more of the Knutsen family's story here https://buff.ly/4cLnC4s

Have you had the chance to read our latest newsletter? ?? In this edition, we are talking all about safe homes and how we guarantee that everyone in our care is nurtured in a loving home, receiving the support and healing they need, allowing them to experience security and guidance, and helping them face everyday challenges with hope! So what does a safe home really look like? You can read our latest newsletter here https://buff.ly/3W4dfmC ??

Happy 4th of July from our Olive Crest family to yours! Today, we celebrate the freedom and independence that make our country great. As we gather with family and friends, let's also remember the importance of building strong, loving homes for every child. Thank you for your commitment in making a difference. Have a safe and joyous Independence Day! ?? ?? ??

Need to do some last minute grocery shopping before the 4th of July? Smart & Final is hosting a register campaign where customers can donate $1 at the register and the funds raised will be donated back to Olive Crest to help children and families in crisis! Check this ?? for your nearest Smart & Final location: https://lnkd.in/gGV_Qt9U