Experience Jefferson County (EJC) is a non-profit organization that exists to improve the quality of life in our community by stimulating citizen involvement, promoting a positive county image and providing a framework for citizens to address issues and create positive change.
Last year while endeavoring to accomplish this mission, a fast growing need in our community continued to pull at the heart of EJC members. The number of children in our community between the ages of 15 and 18 who are displaced is steadily increasing. In response to this disturbing information, EJC decided to take action.
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In July of 2011, the EJC Homeless Youth program was created. This group has since been meeting on a monthly basis in order to address the overall issue of youth homelessness (displacement) in Jefferson County and how to combat it. EJC members, comprised of professionals from every walk of life, have been able to make a significant impact in a short time regarding the ongoing needs of homeless youth. By partnering with social workers from local school districts, we have been able to understand more about the circumstances that lead to youth homelessness, and more importantly, how to prevent it. In addition, EJC has organized efforts to help meet needs like food, clothing, and hygiene products for these teens in our community while striving to be a positive and encouraging voice in their lives.
As this organization moves forward, involvement and support from local businesses and citizens will continue to play a critical role in the impact we’re able to make. We now understand that the elimination of this social challenge depends not only on meeting the needs of our homeless
youth, but also gaining the opportunity to influence them and equip them to overcome their present circumstances. In doing so, these young people will be better positioned to get through the future challenges life will no doubt bring and ultimately be able to contribute to the improvement of our community instead of compounding the social issues we face.
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Currently, our greatest need is to create a drop-in center where teens can come to get a warm meal, shower, do laundry, use computers for homework, and receive mentoring. Businesses or citizens that wish to help with this initiative are encouraged to contact Robin Scott, EJC homeless youth program chair, at 636-464-1880 or email ejc1998@live.com to learn more.
In conclusion, EJC can always benefit from more citizen involvement. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us to learn about the next scheduled meeting so you can attend if you are available. Businesses and citizens can also assist by providing financial donations that will go toward the advancement of the EJC mission to eliminate youth homelessness in Jefferson County. Please
mail donations to EJC c/o University of Missouri Extension, P.O. Box 497, Hillsboro, MO 63050.
Thank you for your support of Jefferson County Homeless Youth.