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Oakland

Launched in 2018

YWFC Oakland has been working to radically transform the ecosystem in Oakland from one that criminalizes and incarcerates Black and Brown young women and trans youth of all genders to one that supports wellness, safety, future success, and justice for young people.

Since launching, YWFC Oakland has become an alternative to incarceration and working in the underground street economy. We have supported directly impacted youth to build their power and leadership – providing training, mentorship, and employment.

oakreferrals@youngwomenfree.org

“Being a youth organizer is important to me because I want to help my community get better. I also really wanted to grow as a person. I love growing. I also thought it would be a great opportunity to get out there and hopefully change lives. It’s important to me because I really want to help the youth. I’ve been in the foster care system before and I want to support others like me.” 

– Ten (she/ her), Youth Organizer

What we’re striving for at YWFC is important to me. The work isn’t about profiting off youth but actually providing support. Being a youth organizer is important because I get to go to a space and have access to new opportunities. I get to learn what it’s like to have a job every day, and explore other possibilities with support!” 

– Artist (she/ her), Youth Organizer

Programs in Oakland

1-1 Self Determination Advocacy

Life Coaching, support, systems navigation, mentorship, and re-entry planning

All in for Oakland

In partnership with Akonadi Foundation, YWFC Oakland works with young people, building their power and leadership organize and advocate for decriminalization and decarceration and investment in community-based alternatives

Community Based Research

Through YWFC’s Freedom Research Institute, young people work to develop and implement Youth Participatory Action Research Projects to inform the work, the field, and policy changes.

Freedom Circles

Weekly 2-hour circles grounded in self-determination, positive peer relationships and caring support from self-determination advocates. Our Freedom Circles provide healing and support for young people navigating to stay out of the system. This work includes court support and systems navigation.

Healing & Wellness

YWFC provides access to holistic healing and support for young people to build confidence, agency, and power.

Leadership Fellowship

24-month paid fellowships for young people to advance their skills as community leaders working on behalf of other young people and our communities in Oakland.

Peer-based Outreach, Advocacy, and Crisis Intervention

Peer advocates have been the most successful at finding and engaging young people in YWFC programming through peer-to-peer referrals, community, and street outreach.

Siblings on the Rise

Siblings on the Rise is a paid internship and fellowship that supports young people who have been involved in the juvenile justice system, foster care, welfare, and/or the underground street economies to gain skills to access sustainable employment.

Transform My Hustle

A 12-15 week course to support young people in finding and maintaining employment and developing entrepreneurial skills and  social capital

Universal Basic Housing

YWFC is piloting a universal basic housing program with young people who are houseless. Participants also receive coaching, mentorship, leadership development and training, and healing support

Young Mothers United

Advocacy and support for pregnant and parenting moms to gain knowledge and support to interrupt the cycle of violence and trauma they have experienced and to heal in order to create healthier habits and routines as a parent.

Resources from Oakland

Resources coming soon!

Current Openings

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