April 2015

Beyond The Surface.
The Real Life Stories of the Youth Project

The Youth Project is honored to work with so many brave teenagers, willing to share their lives with us.  Each month, we'll bring you firsthand accounts of pain, trauma and hope -- from the teens themselves. Here are a few of their stories.


15 y/o female -  student was bullied by two teen males on social media.  Through the bullying student was called names and told to kill herself.  Student has experienced suicidal ideation and attempts in the past and with the help of her Youth Project counselor was able to cope with and handle the negative comments in a healthy way.  

12 y/o male - student reported to his Youth Project counselor that there was abuse in the home.  Student was being called names and physically feared his step-father.  With the support of his Youth Project counselor, a report was made to Department of Child and Family Services and the student was able to advocate for himself to live in a safe environment. 

13 y/o female - student was working with her brother to distribute drugs on campus, to earn extra income for the family.  Student has since changed schools and is continuing to work with her Youth Project counselor.

12 y/o female - student is struggling with depression and suicidal ideation.  Her grades have dropped, as she is now struggling to pay attention in class.  She uses art as an outlet, and continues to work with her Youth Project counselor to find additional healthy ways of coping.
14 y/o male - student struggles with grades and motivation.  Student finally has shared that his relationship with his father is virtually non-existent; stating that he doesn't feel like a priority or that his father loves him.  He realizes that the lack of attention shown by his father, is not his fault, he still feels unworthy.  Youth Project counselor is helping to identify better coping skills and a healthier self image.
16 y/o male - student expressed that he had been sexually assaulted by another student and recent interactions have triggered feelings of anxiety.  Youth Project counselor assisted student in filing charges against alleged offender, as well as continuing to help student with anxiety associated with assault.
The Youth Project is celebrating 15 years of successfully providing free services to teens in the Santa Clarita Valley. Since their doors opened in 2000, the Youth Project has assisted more than 33,000 local families, including 29,000 youth and 6,000 adults.   
To learn more about us and how you can help visit www.HelpNotHassle.org