Programs
Program Overview
Meraki Momentum
Meraki Youth Homes is a faith-based organization focused on providing a safe and loving environment for at-risk children. Our mission is to help youth become well-rounded and productive citizens who value themselves and their communities. We offer a variety of services, including education, recreational activities, mentorship, and life skills training.
Our programs aim to foster personal growth, civic responsibility, and teamwork while respecting each individual's diversity. We emphasize the importance of creating a structured and compassionate environment for our youth and their families. Our curriculum includes age-appropriate activities and resources designed to support the healthy development of young individuals.
Independent Living Skills
Meraki Youth Homes Independent Living Skills (ILS) Program empowers youth to develop the confidence, knowledge, and practical skills needed to successfully transition into adulthood.
Through hands-on learning, mentorship, financial literacy, college and career exploration, and youth leadership opportunities, participants build independence, strengthen decision-making skills, and develop a sense of purpose.
The program provides a supportive environment where young people discover their potential, advocate for themselves, and prepare for a successful future beyond foster care.
Youth Council
The Meraki Youth Council gives girls a voice in the decisions that shape their homes while building confidence and leadership skills.
Members will help plan activities, set goals, explore college and career pathways, and practice teamwork, financial literacy, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. Community partnerships will support learning through mentorship, workshops, field trips, and service projects.
Each term lasts 12 weeks, with the option to serve a second term before welcoming new members. Working alongside Meraki’s leadership team, girls will gain skills and connections that help prepare them for adulthood.
Meraki Momentum
Meraki is a faith-based family environment whose mission is to nurture at-risk children, helping them become well-rounded, productive citizens who value themselves, their families, and helping others. Our primary focus is to create a safe and loving home for children in need.
We provide a range of services designed to support youth through education, recreational activities, mentorship, and life skills training. Our goal is to ensure that each child is firmly equipped to thrive as a productive member of society. Our mentorship program is dedicated to identifying and enhancing individual skill sets.
Our programs are tailored to engage youth at their individual levels, providing them with tools to foster their personal growth. Programs emphasize civic duty, personal accountability, and teamwork. We prioritize creating a safe, structured, and compassionate environment for parents and guardians. We are committed to empowering youth in mind, body, and spirit. Our services encompass life skills training, mentoring, tutoring, community referrals, health and wellness workshops, and job development training. These services are delivered through daily interactions between staff and clients, as well as discussion groups and community outreach efforts.
Independent Living Skills
We believe every resident deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and feel confident managing everyday life. Many of the youth who enter our care have experienced multiple placements and disruptions in education, relationships, and stability, limiting opportunities to develop essential life skills. Our “Onward & Upward” Independent Living Skills (ILS) Program grew from recognizing these gaps and creating meaningful opportunities to prepare young women for adulthood and long-term independence.
The program focuses on practical life skills, including cooking, financial literacy, budgeting, banking, public transportation, employment readiness, college and career exploration, healthy relationships, communication, problem-solving, and everyday household responsibilities. Through hands-on activities, guided lessons, short educational videos, journal reflections, mentorship, and community outings, youth gain real-world experiences in a safe and supportive environment. These learning opportunities are woven into daily life at Meraki, allowing young women to ask questions, practice unfamiliar tasks, and build confidence along the way.
A points-based incentive system encourages participation and celebrates progress. As they reach milestones, their efforts are recognized and makes learning something they to look forward to.
Youth Council
Youth council gives residents a voice in the decisions that shape life in their homes. We want them to know their ideas matter and that we are interested in hearing what they have to say.
Through hands-on activities, workshops, and shared projects, residents will build confidence, develop leadership skills, and prepare for adulthood. The program also supports sobriety through positive connections, healthy coping skills, and substance-free activities.
Residents help plan activities, set goals, and contribute to their communities. Community mentors and partner organizations offer opportunities to learn and practice new skills through workshops, field trips, and service projects.
What Girls Will Explore
Leadership & Teamwork
Share ideas, help plan activities, set goals, and contribute to their communities.
College & Career Exploration
Explore future pathways and connect with mentors and community partners.
Life Skills & Problem-Solving
Build financial literacy, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Community Connections
Learn through mentorship, workshops, field trips, and community service projects.
Each council term will last 12 weeks, giving girls an opportunity to serve in youth leadership and work alongside Meraki’s leadership team. Those who want to continue developing their leadership skills may serve a second term before making room for other youth to participate.
A 12-Week Leadership Experience
12-week terms
A focused leadership experience with opportunities to continue for a second term.
Building skills for adulthood
Practical experience, meaningful connections, and greater confidence for the future.
Partner With Us
We welcome community partnerships! If you or your organization would like to help our youth grow and learn through mentorship, workshops, career exploration, or service opportunities, please contact Andi Gooch at andigooch@merakiyouthhomes.com