Pathways is a grassroots program in the Fort Wayne area for runaway and homeless youth between the ages of 17 to 21. These teens have not been designated by the courts as juvenile delinquents, nor are they abused, neglected or labeled as a "Child in Need of Services." Because of this, they don't qualify for most of the available programming that could help them. Ultimately, they fall between the cracks. These youth need emotional encouragement and financial support. The Villages wants to help them stabilize themselves before they become part of the child welfare system, or worse yet, part of the corrections system. The Pathways program unites a broad array of community partners to provide emergency shelter for runaway and abandoned youth. Often, we find an opportunity to further assist these youth by helping to connect them to our other services. Our goal is to put them back on the path to self-sufficiency and independence. Pathways has become a safety net for youth at the most vulnerable time of their lives. Pathways Services Include: Assistance in meeting educational and vocational skills Knowledge and awareness of the skills needed to live independently and be productive in the community Job hunting and maintenance skills Independent living training Help in acquiring and maintaining appropriate housing (some youth live in their own apartments while a social worker provides a safety net of structure and security) How Can You Help? Provide safe, affordable apartments to involved youth. Serve as an employment "coach" for a youth. Offer your time and expertise as a mentor. Volunteer at a fundraiser for the Pathways program. Make a donation. The Pathways and Villages' Youth Program is funded primarily through private sources. Your donation can make a difference in the life of a young person in the Fort Wayne community.