Message from our Youth Ambassador

Hi, my name is Tatiana Jean Baptiste, I’m 16 years old and a sophomore at Wicomico High school. I enjoy designing and creating new projects, I also love to take care of children and help the ones in need to the best of my abilities. Before I joined the Fenix youth Project, I found different ways to help people even if it's just a small deed it could just change someone’s life for the better. Ever since I was a kid, I would do fundraisers to help people in need no matter what the need. Joining the Fenix youth is the best thing I could’ve done. Everyone in the group is very positive and it’s a great safe place it's also a great way to meet new people. I believe that when you have an opportunity you should take it because in doing so you might just be able to help someone else. 

Interested in volunteering for the youth count? There is still time. Just call 443-736-8028

The Youth Count acts as an opportunity to connect with these youth to better learn about what we can do to help and connect them to initial supports and services.

What’s Youth Homelessness like on da shore?

It’s a growing issue and quite frankly we are behind in providing these services. Thanks to Wicomico Partnerships for Families and Children, Fenix Youth Project Inc. operates the only Youth Drop-In Center that provides resources to unaccompanied youth. Currently, right now we are serving 64 unaccompanied youth clients and their ages range from 16 to 24. Learn more about Fenix Youth Project Inc. www.fenixyouthproject.org

From the desk of Audi - Week 4 at FYP

Hello!

This week I finally presented my PowerPoint presentation for the HALS COC meeting.. I was very nervous but in the end, I had a good turnout and created much conversation. With the Youth-Led Townhall coming up this week I have attended meetings and created an agenda for how the Town Hall will go. There should be a great turnout since we have been doing as much advertising as we could. Over the weekend, SU students passed out over 150 fliers! 

As many know, finding a job can be difficult. Putting in countless applications can be frustrating, especially when you do not get an interview or call back. Now imagine having more barriers such as being an ex-felon. How do we expect people to integrate back into society when a lot of rights, such as voting and privileges are taken away from them? After doing some research on what companies do consider or take felons into consideration. I have created a list of a few companies in Salisbury and surrounding areas. 

• AT&T

• Verizon 

• Ace Hardware 

• Baskin- Robbins 

• Buffalo Wild Wings

• Chili’s 

• Chipotle 

• Dollar Tree

• Family Dollar 

• Goodwill 

• GreyHound 

• Red Lobster 

• PetSmart 

• Jiffy Lube 

• Kohl’s  

https://www.dioceseofjoliet.org/siteimages/peace/documents/Jail_and_Prison_Ministry/List_of_Felon_Friendly_Employers.pdf 

From The Desk of Audi - Week 3 at FYP

Hello! 

This week has been more focused on finishing up some projects. I am making the final touches to my PowerPoint presentation to present to the HALS COC meeting next week. As well as the annual sleepout on November 17th and town hall that is in a few weeks. Things are slowly coming together.

For my new project I have been working on creating a rough draft for host applications and contracts. The Fenix Youth Project has the exciting news of getting approved for host housing!

I have also learned about new policies that have been implemented that could and will affect the homeless population overall. Maryland Police Accountability Act of 2021 - Police Discipline and Law Enforcement Programs and Procedures and Maryland House Bill 189. The Accountability Act prohibits a police officer from preventing a citizen from recording the officer's actions if the citizen is otherwise acting lawfully and safely. Also learned that HB 189 is a Pilot Program in the Division of Neighborhood Revitalization to provide funds to nonprofit organizations to establish or expand mobile laundry services for the homeless. 

I’m excited to learn more during my internship.