Founded in 1906, OYHFS’s services are deeply rooted in equity and leveling the playing field so that youth who have experienced significant trauma have the necessary supports to build successful futures. These children are often learning, for the first time, that there is a hopeful path forward, and we give them the tools to succeed in their relationships with others, in school, and beyond. Serving over 600 at-risk youth and their families every day, Optimist provides a full continuum of care by supporting children in their homes, in foster care, and in residential settings with trauma-informed and evidence-based practices designed to develop emotional resilience, social support systems, educational attainment, and independent adult lives.
