Be the Village for Youth Experiencing Homelessness

Waking the Village is no 30 day shelter.  We are in for the long haul.  Our clients do not manage crisis- they conquer it.

Waking the Village  offers 24 months of housing and support so that Sacramento's youth and their children can get busy living rather than surviving. Youth experience healthy living, relentless support, and educational guidance so that they leave prepared to be leaders in their own lives, and leaders in the lives of their children and communities. In exchange for housing, child care, and wrap around support, residents grow as leaders as they govern their housing communities and pursue goals to uplift their futures and their communities.

Since 2003, 70% of clients attended college. 80% committed to counseling. 70% secured a job or completed an inetrnship during their stay. Our young parents actively parent and many give birth during their stay. The children attend our free, licensed preschool each day. All youth build a network of support, strengthen wellness, save 75% of income, clear debts, and work toward sustainable housing.  Since opening our doors in 2003, over 90% of our clients have never experienced homelessness again. 

Our residents put it best:

"Waking the Village  helped me see my potential as a woman, and a person. I was a person who deserved a healthy fresh start in life. Finally, I made my final break from an abusive relationship. I started on the road to an actual new journey."

"I got to know and love my child for exactly the person she was. My child got to bond with everyone in the community. Waking the Village is our own tribe with each person in the community helping take care of each other and our children."

"I received so much support and love here- more than I ever expected. I've also been through a lot here at Waking the Village as I face both the good and the bad of my life so far. Waking the Village has always been there for me, reminding me of the possibilities of my best self, not just for my family but for myself as well. I’ve learned so much about parenting and communicating. But the one thing I've learned the most is to try new things and to live life to the fullest."

In monitoring visits, reviewers from foundations and federal agencies also celebrated:

“Waking the Village embraces a youth development philosophy committed to involving youth in activities that improve local conditions, provides them with skills, and gives a chance to feel useful within their community. They strive to create an environment in which youth are valued. The staff does a great job of providing a positive and supportive living environment; there is obvious mutual respect and sincere concern demonstrated by staff members and residents.”

“The one-on-one model of daily coaching encourages the development of a strong bond between staff and residents. A former resident visited and it was clear that a strong, lasting relationship had developed.  Youth demonstrated a high regard for staff. That relationship is highly valued and cared for.  The staff is extremely committed, passionate and dedicated.”

At Waking the Village , our residents chase dreams. It’s a giddy and terrifying business- as all dream chasing is. Inherent in the quest are moments of crushing doubt. This is why Waking the Village is a community. In these moments of fear, each of us needs to be surrounded by people looking at us with absolute confidence in our ability to succeed. We need people to insist on our possibilities.  At Waking the Village, we ensure each youth is immersed in the supportive community she or he needs to claim a new day.

We thank you for considering support for the youth and children of our village.