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News & Updates
Here you'll find the latest stories about our youth, partners, and so much more! Follow along to stay up to date!
Navigate


Navigate Youth helps measure and map Springfield’s urban forest
Image credit: Ashli Blow / Lookout Eugene-Springfield Connected Lane County's Navigate youth, Fredrick, helps measure and map multiple trees in Springfield's urban forests. He's been working with the Willamalane Park and Recreation District to help catalog and document multiple trees in various parks scattered around Springfield. He has helped count almost 300 trees including "the beast." Check out Lookout Eugene-Springfield's full article to learn more about how Fredrick is
Jul 17, 2025


Meet Ryan, our young adult highlight!
Ryan found Connected Lane County during a rough time in his life. He was unhoused, couch surfing, and facing various barriers to education and employment. Hosea Youth Services shared Connected Lane County as a resource, and Ryan was able to receive support through our Direct Cash Transfers as Prevention Pilot before joining our other programs. Navigate provided Ryan with access to new resources and activities like Wonder Week, a week-long job and career readiness experience.
Nov 6, 2024


Meet Kira, our August youth highlight!
Kira, a Cottage Grove High School graduate, found Connected Lane County during her senior year and has been involved in both Navigate and Elevate programming! Kira has participated in various events, including Wonder Wednesday, Job Fairs, Elevate Job Shadows, Wonder Week, and work experiences. “I've always had great fun at these events. I got to meet new people and learn about things I haven't known before that may help in the future,” said Kira. According to Kira’s Resourc
Aug 14, 2024


Direct Cash Transfers as Prevention News
Connected Lane County piloted Direct Cash Transfers for Lane County youth. See the news coverage below! KLCC Executive Director Heidi Larwick and Program Lead Annie Dropek (pictured above) sit down with KLCC Reporter Michael Dunne to discuss Connected Lane County's pilot program for Direct Cash Transfers to prevent youth homelessness. Listen to the interview to learn more! KEZI 9 News Connected Lane County participating in pilot program to prevent youth homelessness By: Ryan
Jun 26, 2024


May Young Adult Highlight: Meet Jaiden!
Jaiden (she/her) has been an engaged Connected Lane County community member since joining the Navigate Program in July of 2022. Jaiden has faced challenges and barriers to employment and has demonstrated significant professional and personal growth throughout her time with us. To learn more about her story, read her interview below! What Connected Lane County events or experiences have you participated in? “I've had the pleasure of participating in multiple events and exper
May 17, 2024


Youth Highlight: Elliott
Elliott has been an engaged member of the Connected Lane County community since August 2023. Elliott appreciates the inclusive and welcoming environment at Spark locations, where they can unwind, access support, and engage in various activities. To learn more about Elliott’s story, read their interview below! How did you find Connected Lane County, and what made you stay for additional experiences? “My case manager at LCBH recommende
Feb 21, 2024


Youth Highlight: Carmen
Navigate Support Carmen entered the Navigate program at 17 years old, unemployed, and dropped out of school. The combination of a difficult home life and a severe car accident that totaled her only source of transportation left her struggling with mental health issues and unable to re-engage with education. With support from the program, she enrolled in a GED program and completed her GED last year. She also began receiving support for her mental health, which helped her bet
Oct 31, 2023


Navigate Wonder Week 2023
In July, the Navigate program's second Wonder Week unfolded seamlessly, inspiring and empowering young adults. This immersive event at Spark on 7th focused on job readiness and career exploration. Each day, Navigate youth gathered for dedicated learning, growth, and new opportunities.
Aug 17, 2023


Youth Highlight: Maia
Maia's Inspiring Journey with the Navigate Program At the heart of the Navigate program lies the belief that with the right support and guidance, every young individual can overcome adversity and reach their fullest potential. Maia's story is a testament to this philosophy, showcasing the transformative power of the Navigate program in shaping young lives. At just 17, Maia faced daunting challenges. But with determination and the help of her Resource Navigator, Olivia Goodhea
Aug 15, 2023
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