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Every college graduate has a story, but no one has Vida Opoku’s story. Born and raised in a small village in Ghana, Vida was forced into an abusive marriage at a very young age in order to settle a family medical debt. After giving birth to a son, After giving birth to a son, she decided to flee her country. With the help of an aunt, Vida embarked on an odyssey in search for safety through nine different countries by foot, horseback, and wooden boat until she reached the United States. While Vida was held in government custody, the Young Center was appointed as her Child Advocate to ensure she would not be returned to danger.

Vida is is one of many people who inspire our celebration of Immigrant Heritage Month and the resilience and contributions of those who arrive in the United States fleeing violence. She is one of thousands of children and youth we have accompanied as they pursue their dreams. Your support is crucial in ensuring that we can reach children who -despite unbelievable odds- relentlessly chase their North Star.

LIVING OUR VALUES

Our Grants Manager Lorena Gonzalez and Grants Writer Jes Olvera  highlight some of the key challenges they face in their work giving voice to children from marginalized communities, and explore why this requires a justice-centered approach to philanthropy that asks funders to think in terms of solidarity, rather than charity.

POLICY CORNER

From folktales and traditions, to protecting children's family ties with extended family members, each piece contributes to the ongoing survival of indigenous identity. However, a pending Supreme Court decision threatens the rights of indigenous children and the existence of Native American communities. 

Our Policy and Litigation Attorney Abena Hutchful reflects on the importance of indigenous children's access to their heritage; and how a negative ruling on Brackeen v. Haaland, a landmark case which concerns the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), could upend children’s right to family unity, cultural connection, and political identity.

IN THE MEDIA

Our Media Relations Specialist Anabel Mendoza was featured on Chicago's WTTW where she and community leaders discussed what being a sanctuary city for immigrants means beyond law enforcement implications and what challenges migrants face integrating into their new surroundings.

JOIN THE TEAM 

We are excited to announce that our National Volunteer Child Advocate Training will be held on June 24 and 25th. We're looking for people who are ready and willing to join the fight for immigrant children's rights across our eight locations, as well as Washington state, Oregon, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. Click here to learn more. 

We also have several positions open. Interested in joining a dedicated and passionate team, committed to advocating for immigrant children's rights? Click the button to browse our careers page.