Thank you to each of the 109 people who chose to invest in our mission and empower youth with foster care experience toward healthy, self-sufficient futures!

It was incredible to watch generosity pour in throughout the day. We are honored to have received matching funds from Nugget Market, Brent Gove eXp Realty Group, and Friends of Aging UP (a small group of volunteers and former mentors). Because of these committed dollars, the impact of every investment up to $13,000 went twice as far in supporting youth who deserve it most!

Our services of one-to-one mentoring, positive recreation, life skills education and adulting support serve as a preventative approach to some of Sacramento’s largest issues, like homelessness, human trafficking, substance use, and mental health challenges.

Mentoring relationships offer more than just a trusted friend and role model. They help to ease anxiety, build resiliency and support overall mental health, which ultimately heals the effects of trauma. As one of many — nearly 900 — deserving nonprofits that were reaching out for support, we appreciate every gift received and every like and share to spread the word.

These tax-deductible dollars will equip 13-to-24-year-old youth from foster care with the skills and resources needed to thrive into adulthood.

Big Day of Giving is a program of the Sacramento Region Community Foundation to raise unrestricted funds for nonprofit organizations that strengthen the capital region. This year, the region raised $15.4 million dollars for local nonprofits! It is an inspiring day of philanthropy that began in 2013, and we are proud participants.

Numbers are preliminary, before potential company giving campaigns, mailed checks, and BDOG prizes or Golden 1 matching funds.

This year’s Holiday meetUP was intended to bring homey feelings of an old-time Christmas gathering with friends. Thanks to dedicated volunteers who led creative activities, the event had a special element of thoughtfulness. Other festive touches included a hot cocoa bar, holiday crafts, and one of the season’s most iconic traditions: cookie decorating.

Mentor Kristin, who also volunteers as a baker with Cake4Kids, truly made the day sweet (literally, with more than 6 pounds of powdered sugar!). After hours of prep to mix, roll out, and bake more than 100 cookies in 5 festive shapes, she also prepared 5 colors of homemade royal icing and packed dozens of mini piping bags for everyone.

Kristin and other amazing volunteers arrived early to set up cookie-decorating stations and transform a lovely apartment clubhouse into a festively welcoming space. Wintery decor also reflected elements of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanza to honor the diversity within our community. As Mentoring Matches arrived, the room quickly filled with chatter and laughter amid holiday tunes. Mentees and Mentors mingled while eating tasty bites and warm hot chocolate.

Then, everyone gathered for cookie fun. Kristin guided the group through flood-decorating techniques, and once everyone got the hang of it, creativity took over. The perfectly golden Christmas trees, stockings, sweaters, snowflakes, and dark brown gingerbread cookies were decorated with care and delight. For several mentees, this was their first time decorating cookies, which was very special for Kristin, who cherishes memories of this tradition.

Another favorite activity was the craft station, where mentees created DIY ornaments and sculpted mini snowmen from air-dry putty. The space also had a small theater complete with comfy lounge chairs in stadium-style seating. A big screen played modern animated holiday short films curated by Volunteer Videographer Victoria.

Holiday cards for some of the people who invest in our mission were available for mentees and mentors to sign, offering an opportunity to share their gratitude. Two of the youth happily insisted on signing every card — more than 30 — to personally thank those who help make our community possible.

Seeing the youth mingle with one another, their mentors, and other volunteers is so heartwarming. It is also very meaningful to the youth. As one shared, “It’s my time to escape from my real world and come together with everybody and have a great time.”

Everyone left with a box of cookies (some with fewer than others as the sweet creations were hard to resist), any crafts they created, and feel-good holiday vibes. The youth also received a stocking with candy, useful items and fun gadgets, thanks to some generous friends. One mentee won a Chromebook through CalKIDS, which was perfect for her college journey.

After the event, our entire community of Mentoring Matches received an email with the cookie and icing recipes and a link to the animated shorts. This way, those who participated could relive the fun, and those who were unable to attend would still enjoy some of the festivities.

It was a day filled with cheer, new traditions, and gifts that brought care and joy during a season that can be very difficult for young people who have experienced foster care. We are deeply grateful to have held this space and thank all 7 volunteers — including a Mentoring Match and one young adult mentee — who made it happen.

May the spirit of sweet togetherness continue to fill hearts this season and throughout the year ahead!

From the moment Mentoring Matches arrived, they were welcomed into a warm, mixer-style environment. As they enjoyed catching up and sipping sparkling cider, volunteers passed butternut squash soup shooters and pomegranate caprese skewers.

As Matches mingled, Mulvaney’s Co-owner Bobbin and Hospitality Manager Laurie began a warm and approachable etiquette lesson—sharing practical life skills on navigating social situations, starting conversations, and what to do when you’re unsure where to put a used skewer or cup. They also introduced both open and assigned seating customs, then guided Matches to beautifully set tables thanks to linens and place settings from Mulvaney’s.

The semi-formal 4-course meal flowed seamlessly, with pre-set harvest salads next. As the meal progressed, Bobbin demystified common dining questions (“Which glass is mine?” “What’s all this silverware for?” “Is it OK to reach for the bread?”), offering reassurance and real-world advice. Before entrees were served, Bobbin had shared the necessary tips on what to expect during more formal dining experiences, leaving time for Matches to simply enjoy the rest of the meal and one another’s company. Entrées of rotisserie chicken or a meatless applewood sausage, paired with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans, were then served. Dessert, of course, was pumpkin pie.

One mentee said, “…that was some of the best food I’ve ever had!”

This special gathering was made possible by a grant from Save Mart CARES Foundation. Save Mart store 623 on Kiefer Blvd. also generously provided the ingredients and collaborated with our Program Team to design a menu that was both tasty and easy to prepare.

After dinner, the celebration continued with raffle prizes, casual games of pool, and plenty of laughter and conversation. Watching our youth build genuine friendships with one another is one of the most rewarding parts of our community—and this gathering was full of those moments.

Friendsgiving was a joyful success, and we are excited to make it an annual tradition. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make it a meaningful and memorable experience.

We are thrilled about this growing movement that recognizes the impacts of mentoring. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to highlight the youth we serve and thank the incredible mentors who make our work possible.

Mentoring is more than just a one-time act of kindness. For us, it’s all about relationships and creating meaningful, long-term connections. We are honored to connect youth who have experienced foster care with screened and trained volunteers. Our mentors become trusted role models and friends. These relationships promote growth, resilience and a sense of belonging for young people who deserve it most.

Why Mentoring Matters for Youth from Foster Care
Young people transitioning out of foster care face significant challenges. Statistics* show that within just two years of exiting foster care in California, many experience harsh realities:

• 16% have been incarcerated
• 25% have experienced homelessness
• 40% are unemployed

These statistics paint an unfortunate and sobering picture. However, research** also reveals much hope. Many sciences continue to reveal that a stable and committed relationship with at least one supportive adult is the number one factor in building resiliency and overcoming trauma. Additional research*** recognizes that establishing lifelong connections can have the greatest impact on the overall well-being of youth from foster care. This is how mentoring makes all the difference—through relationships!

Aging UP is a Unique Approach to Mentoring
We serve 13-to-22-year-olds with foster care experience in Sacramento. Youth Today, a national nonprofit and independent news source, has noted that there are “only a handful of groups across the country that focus exclusively on mentoring foster youth.” We are proud to be among this small but impactful group of mentoring programs.

Our research-based services combine one-to-one mentoring, life skills education and positive recreational activities. This unique approach fills a much-needed gap in our community. By providing one-to-one engagement plus peer support, we create a sense of belonging. Mentors extend this by acting as cheerleaders, supporting their mentees as they navigate life’s challenges, and encouraging their successes.

Join Us in Celebrating National Mentoring Month

• Become a mentor: Be someone who impacts a young person’s life
• Support our mission: Donate or spread the word about Aging UP’s work
• Celebrate mentoring: Share stories about how mentors have impacted your life

Let’s make January not just a month of celebration but a movement of empowerment. Together, we can empower youth from foster care to thrive! To learn more or get involved, visit our website.

*Kids Count Data Center - California, FY 2020-2021, **Center on the Developing Child – Harvard University, 2015, ***Improving Family Foster Care - Findings from the Northwest Foster Care Alumni Study (pg. 52)

The Match Coordinator will join our efforts of empowering youth with experience in foster care by providing supervision and supportive services to mentors and youth in our program. Tasks include regular check-ins with program participants (youth, mentors and caregivers) to monitor participant safety, ensure positive impacts for youth, and promote healthy relationships between youth and their mentors.

This independent contractor role will start in August 2024 and offers a high degree of flexibility. You will support a caseload of up to 10 Mentoring Matches comprised of youth (ages 13-22) and their volunteer adult mentors. Because most mentors and youth have daytime commitments of work and school, weekend availability is needed but adjusted to suit your schedule.

Does this sound like YOU?! Review the full scope of work description and apply by July 31, 2024.

*You can learn more about our current Match Coordinators at agingup.org/our-team.

We know there are many well-deserving local and national organizations to support this holiday season. As we continue to celebrate 5 years of empowering youth from foster care, we ask that you please give your time, voice and/or dollars to join us!

Your generosity toward our mission will do good today and for years to come. Our research-based services of one-to-one mentoring, positive recreation and life skills education for 13-to-21-year-old youth offer scientifically proven supports that buffer the effects of trauma and build resiliency. They also offer long-term benefits that enable youth to beat statistics — high rates of homelessness, unemployment, and incarceration, etc. — and thrive!

Check out the ways YOU can give empowerment this holiday season.

TIME

• Sign up to become a mentor or a volunteer.
• Plan and hold a fundraiser (bake sale, gift card drive, etc.) on our behalf.

VOICE

• Like and share our messages on social media.
• Encourage others to donate and get involved!
• Vote on issues that benefit youth from foster care.

DOLLARS

• Give any amount through our website, PayPal, Facebook, or mail a check (PO Box 293504 Sacramento, CA 95829).
• CA state employees can give through the Our Promise United Way campaign until Dec. 31.
• Other companies, like Nordstrom, VSP, Kaiser, etc., offer payroll donation options as well.
• Mail gift cards for local restaurants, attractions, retailers or grocery stores so youth can enjoy constructive free time or get much-needed items!
• Purchase a program item from our Amazon Wish List that will be sent directly to us on your behalf.

Thank you for your generosity, and happy holidays!

Faith simultaneously works as a server at BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse, a job she has had for a while now. She is also a dedicated student with less than one year from completing her bachelor’s degree in child and adolescent development in the study of social and community contexts from California State University, Sacramento.

As Aging UP’s FYI AmeriCorps Member, Faith is especially passionate to help youth in foster care because she was in foster care at one point. Faith is also planning to go into social work after her degree. She lives in Elk Grove and, when she is not working or studying, she enjoys walks around the park, painting, reading, and cleaning…yes cleaning.

This fun-filled day is exclusively for youth with current or former foster care experience who are 14 years old or older and can be accompanied by a supportive adult (mentor, parent, guardian, social worker, etc.).

Attendees will enjoy interactive activities, including high-tech driving simulators used by the California Highway Patrol! Prizes, lunch and resources are all part of this FREE event. Pre-registration is required.

Impact Teen Drivers and its partners the California Highway Patrol and the California Office of Traffic Safety are the driving force behind this event, and we couldn’t be more pleased to join them.

Learning to drive is often a highlight for teens and young adults. Unfortunately, along with other normalcy experiences, youth in foster care face many barriers to gaining their driver’s license. It is estimated that only 4% of youth obtain a driver’s license while in foster care. Barriers include frequent moves, costs (instruction, insurance and gas), or having an adult with a car to help them practice.

We are so excited to be part of this important event. Youth will learn tips and tricks to stay safe as a driver or passenger and also gain resources on how to obtain their licenses.

Youth from foster care, ages 14 or older can attend with an adult. Please register by Sept. 6.

Our recent Harvest Picnic meetUP was a fun way to celebrate this season! Mentoring Matches met at a local park for lunch and pumpkin carving. It was a beautiful Sacramento fall day — chilly yet sunny, which made it a perfect outdoor event where Matches could social distance while still enjoying time together as a group.

Upon arrival, the teens selected a large pumpkin and received a small decorated bucket filled with a carving kit and a surprise goodie bag that included festive socks and candy. A hearty lunch of fresh sandwiches with chips was made complete by adorable and very tasty monster cookies, thanks to our friends at Cake4Kids.

Youth and mentors worked side-by-side to create their unique jack-o’-lanterns. Most Matches freehanded their pumpkin designs while others used patterns from their carving kits. All of the jack-o’-lanterns came out great, and it was wonderful to celebrate together!

We encourage all caring adults to help teens in your life enjoy Halloween in a way that makes them comfortable. Check out our fun suggestions*:

• Let them eat candy! If you’re passing out candy, please share with teens — even if they don’t say “trick or treat” or aren’t in (elaborate) costumes.
• Help them dress up. It doesn’t have to cost a lot. Dressing up can be done with minimal accessories, simple hair/makeup and everyday clothes. We also like these fun and affordable costume ideas curated by Fabulessly Frugal.
• Order tasty takeout – several pizza chains offer jack-o’-lantern-shaped pizza. You can also check out tasty deals (shared by TODAY) from national restaurants, like Krispy Kreme, Wendy’s and more.
• Have a movie marathon — depending on your teen’s preference, you can stream Halloween-inspired movies from a spooky, horror, vintage or comedy genre.
• Bake or decorate a fun seasonal treat, like one of these easy recipes from Insanely Good.
• Of course, pumpkin carving is a great activity — you can make it a contest and give a prize.

We hope these tips* encourage you to do something fun with the teens in your life. A signature part of our program is to provide positive recreation to youth from foster care. We are proud to offer these age-appropriate activities and love seeing our young people enjoy traditions with their mentors.

We hope you enjoy a safe and happy Halloween!

*This content is NOT sponsored. These are original ideas from Aging UP staff and any companies mentioned are simply noted for inspiration.

Bonnie has more than 22 years of experience working in the area of childhood trauma. Before launching her therapy practice, Bonnie was a social worker dedicated to serving children in foster care.

Her passion for working with youth in foster care ignited in 2000 when she met a young lady in foster care while working for an after-school recreation program. After getting to know the youth and hearing more about her situation, Bonnie decided on a job as a social worker at a local foster family agency. Over the early years of her career, Bonnie obtained her Master of Counseling Degree and began working in a more therapeutic setting. Cofounders April and Kecia knew Bonnie through a mutual connection. They reached out and were thrilled when she accepted the opportunity to be our first Match Coordinator in 2018. 

Bonnie is happily married to her husband of 27 years and is a mother of 2 creative and energetic young men. In her free time, Bonnie is a fitness fanatic with six Spartan races and one Tough Mudder Classic completed. More recently, she enjoys CrossFit and paddle boarding.

Photo by Lana Akin Photography