Mission

Waymakers build safer communities by helping individuals make their way through conflict and crisis to a place of strength and stability. We do this by sheltering children in crisis, supporting crime victims, counseling families of at-risk youth, resolving conflicts, and educating communities.

What We Do

Waymakers shelters children (ages 11-17) who are homeless, runaway, abused, or those struggling with mental health issues. We provide food and housing security, individual, group and family counseling, academic tutoring, prevention education and life skills development activities.

Victims and surviving family members learn to cope with the aftermath of crimes through the support and assistance of victim advocates. They receive services to meet individual needs (ie. financial, housing, mental health counseling) and support during criminal justice proceeding. Additionally, staff and volunteer advocates provide 24/7 response to victims of sexual assault, gang violence, human trafficking, and mass violence.

Youth involved with the justice system are offered counseling and support services, which help them see the possibility of positive choices for their lives and help set them on a path to success. Struggling families of at-risk youth 11-25 can access individual and family counseling and parenting classes. Services are provided to address issues involving mental health, housing, education, employment, and basic survival needs.

Those facing conflict can turn to trained staff and volunteer mediators who facilitate an effective process of conflict resolution as an alternative to small claims court, civil harassment court proceedings, and as a preventative measure in community settings.

Waymakers education programs provide members of the Orange County community information needed to lead healthier and safer lives.