Mission Statement
The overarching mission of the Bravehearts is to empower young adults touched by the Child Welfare, Juvenile Justice, and Mental Health systems to become active and authentic leaders in their own lives as they transition into adulthood, by validating lived experience as a form of expertise.
Through a values-based lens of equity, relatability, and compassion, the Bravehearts inspire the creation of systemic & programmatic cultures that invest in the development of youth voice and cultivate safe spaces for young adults to express themselves meaningfully.
Through fostering authentic youth/adult partnerships, the Bravehearts work in tandem with local, county and state youth serving stakeholders to address systemic disparities, reimagine engagement practices, heal systemic traumas and ensure the access of wellness & belonging for every young person transitioning into adulthood.
Vision Statement
The Bravehearts envision safe spaces where all young adults are no longer defined by their adverse experiences, but know that their experiential expertise can bring healing to themselves, while helping to inspire the lives of their peers for future generations to come.
We yearn for a belonging-based culture where youth voice is no longer feared, filtered or discredited; but is nurtured, welcomed and embraced. Where youth are not entered into systems but are embraced by a village of natural support. Where every young person experiences dignity while away from their homes and is afforded access to be gainfully employed, properly educated, securely housed and genuinely supported.
We wish to end stereotypes and stigmas by striving to develop a community of healing. We envision building bridges of communication in which young adults and professionals are informed through shared expertise and work in partnership to create trusting, engaging, and innovative relationships. This vision will support the implementation of authentic and healing-responsive service delivery across all systemic sectors.