NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — A recent study found a Tennessee program helped to make life better for a group of foster children who aged out of state care — something never before documented by researchers.

Memphis-based Youth Villages offered services to former foster children that included weekly counseling on many aspects of daily life. Those young adults had higher incomes, more stable housing, better economic well-being and some health improvements.

The study by MDRC compared the lives of 1,300 young people from 2010 through 2012. Since then, the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services and Youth Villages has agreed to split a $6 million cost to offer assistance to all of Tennessee’s aging out foster youth. That 2013 agreement made Tennessee the first state to offer aid universally.

Jackson is home to Youth Villages affiliated center. According to their website, Youth Villages serves troubled children and their families.  There are several ways you can get involved

Mentor
In the Memphis and West Tennessee, Nashville and Middle Tennessee and Metro Atlanta regions, become a mentor and a positive adult influence for young people in our programs – someone who will help them persevere through hard times, advise them to make the right decisions, and just be a friend.
Personal Fundraising
Set a personal goal and persuade your friends and family to help you reach it while helping the children and families served by Youth Villages.

Often, children come from extremely disadvantaged situations. In many locations, Youth Villages can accept clothing or household items but needs vary from location to location.

To learn more about Youth Villages visit the website, www.youthvillages.org