ABOUT
Why is Teen TrUSt so special?
At Teen TrUSt, teens are connected through the shared experience of foster care - where often their childhood joys have been stripped away due to abuse, trauma, and neglect. Our year-round programs offer the opportunity for these teens to build trust in the world around them as they experience new adventures, establish positive relationships with peers and adults, and learn that God loves and has a plan for them.
Regardless of how many foster homes or other changing life circumstances, our commitment to our teens is steadfast, something they can trust and count on. Whether engaging in adventures at our weekend summer camp or participating in our monthly mentoring program, our dedicated team of volunteers, most of who have had some experience in foster care and all who are trauma trained, provide a circle of support, encouragement, and inspiration.
OUR PROGRAMS:
Teen TrUSt provides FREE exciting and fun overnight camp experiences for teen girls and teen boys from the northwest suburbs of Chicago who have faced abuse, trauma, and neglect. Most, but not all, of our teens are in the foster care system. Those that are not in the system are living with extended family members due to the neglect and trauma found in their biological home settings.
Our programming extends well beyond camp! We also offer FREE monthly mentoring where safe friendships are continued and coaching is provided to inspire our teens to see what we see- they matter to God and we believe in their incredible potential.
OUR VISION:
Empowering foster youth to believe in their incredible value.
OUR MISSION:
We celebrate, coach, and inspire foster youth toward a brighter future.
HOW DO WE COACH OUR TEENS?
We coach teens in faith-based values, where they learn of God’s incredible love. As we build relationships, teens are coached through affirmation, encouragement and group discussion.
HOW DO WE CELEBRATE OUR TEENS?
We celebrate all teens in our summer camp and monthly mentoring through games, activities, and conversation. Our goal is to listen and love well, while building meaningful relationships with teens facing abuse and neglect and their families.
HOW DO WE INSPIRE OUR TEENS?
We model positive action, treating teens with dignity and respect. We help develop a greater sense of self-worth so confidence grows within them. With this confidence comes the realization they can become courageous adults to conquer life’s challenges.
OUR HISTORY
We are a 501c3 nonprofit, led completely by volunteers. We have been serving foster children and teens for over 15 years.