As youth who have experienced life in inner cities, in foster care, and on the streets, our founders know the power education has to change the trajectory of one’s life. After graduating from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Compass’ founders entered careers in the education and nonprofit fields. We are passionate about offering a similar educational opportunity for those who could benefit the most: foster care youth.

While the lives of foster youth are inherently tumultuous, one thing that has remained a constant in their lives is the dedication of all staff, board members, and volunteers at Compass For Youth.  One-on-one attention is often missing from many aspects of a foster student’s life, considering they live in facilities of up to 45 other youth. It is Compass’ goal to go the extra distance to ensure foster youth feel supported, accounted for, and listened to in every aspect of their personal and educational goals. A check-in phone call, taking the time to listen to their needs and difficulties, or purchasing a UCLA sweatshirt for a student excited about their future- these are some of the ways our staff attend to not just the student, but the whole person. 

However, a caring and professional staff is just one side of the equation for a successful non-profit organization. Another critical aspect is ensuring that our staff has access to the best facilities, technology, and equipment with which to provide the best possible service for our youth. Our goal is to be able to provide our community of scholars with the highest level of care.