Jacaranda Rising

🎉 Celebrating Ty 🎉

Not every turning point begins with a life-changing event. Sometimes, it starts with a simple conversation.

In December 2023, Ty met volunteers from Jacaranda Rising at a holiday party in the transitional shelter where he was living. What began as a conversation grew into a relationship built on trust, consistency, and genuine care.

Since age 18, Ty had been navigating life largely on his own—sleeping on couches, in a hotel, and in shelters. Over the past 2+ years, we’ve had the privilege of walking alongside him as he worked toward stability and his goals. Through mentorship, budgeting support, career coaching, and encouragement, Ty built confidence, direction, and a strong foundation for his future.

In May 2024, he moved into his own apartment, and when unexpected challenges arose, our community made sure he had the support he needed to keep moving forward. He showed up for himself again and again, doing the hard work required to create lasting change.

Today, we are proud to celebrate Ty as he has graduated from Jacaranda Rising’s program at age 25—our first program graduate—and begins an exciting new chapter. After passing his tests, Ty has enlisted in the United States Air Force and will begin basic training this month.

The young man who once had countless ideas but little direction now has a plan, purpose, and a community cheering him on every step of the way.

Ty, it has been an honor to be part of your journey. Your resilience, determination, and growth inspire all of us. Once part of the Jacaranda Rising family, always part of the family.

And to our volunteers, mentors, and supporters—thank you. Stories like Ty’s are possible because you continue to show up.

(Ty's name and image have been changed in order to protect his privacy.)

🎓✨ Big Congratulations! ✨🎓

This June, we have the incredible honor of celebrating one of our Jacaranda Rising participants as they graduate from college! 🎉

For young adults experiencing homelessness, earning a college degree can be especially challenging. In Los Angeles County, fewer than 3% of youth who have experienced foster care go on to graduate from college. That’s why this achievement is so meaningful.

We are beyond proud to celebrate our participant's graduation from Pierce College this June. Their hard work, perseverance, and dedication have brought them to this milestone, and we couldn't be more excited to cheer them on as they walk across the stage.

This accomplishment is a reminder that with determination, support, and opportunity, incredible things are possible.

Please join us in congratulating this amazing graduate! 🎓👏💜