Youth Give Back

Youth Volunteerism

For the past six years, Tara, a coordinator with the Michigan Youth Opportunities Initiative (MYOI), has brought a group of passionate young people to volunteer at our Coats for Kids (& Adults) program. This annual effort helps hundreds of local families stay warm through the winter, and MYOI youth are always among the first to lend a hand. This year, Tara, two teens, and three young adults spent the day helping families select coats, restock racks and check out shoppers.

MYOI, a program of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, supports youth who are transitioning out of the foster care system. Many of these young people have faced instability and hardship themselves and giving back to others in need has special meaning. The program focuses on helping participants build a strong future in housing, education, employment and health, while also encouraging community engagement.

“We thought it was a great opportunity for our kids to give back. They love to help and they get to pick out a coat for themselves too — which they love!” said Tara.

Jenny, who has volunteered for all six years, shared, “I have been involved with TrueNorth since I was in middle school. Since then, I found that I love helping out with the community and helping people. It’s just something I like to do, to give back.”

These young volunteers know firsthand how important a warm coat can be. Their compassion and service are powerful reminders of how generosity and shared experience can bring comfort and hope to others. Together, they’re helping neighbors in need and building a stronger, more caring community for all.

This year’s Coats for Kids (& Adults) distributed 748 coats to local children and adults in need, helping to ensure they stay warm this winter. This program would not be possible without the generous support of our community – those who donated financially or gave coats, or those who volunteered their time, like Tara and her crew.