Oxford-Addison Youth Assistance (OAYA): Planting Seeds, Growing Leaders
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In the heart of Oxford and Addison, a small nonprofit has quietly transformed the lives of young people and families for decades. Oxford-Addison Youth Assistance (OAYA) isn’t just a program; it’s a village. Ben Kargetta, Chairperson of the Board, reflects on the past year with gratitude: “The collaboration and camaraderie we have shared has been a real joy to me. Kindness doesn’t wait for an invitation or require an agenda. It cares, consoles, and transforms.”
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For Ben, retirement brought unexpected purpose. He discovered a community of volunteers spanning their 20s to their 80s, all dedicated to supporting youth through mentoring, service projects, and school programs.
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Together, they expanded the volunteer base by 70%, contributing more than 1,660 service hours – a 100% increase from the previous year. Programs like the Wildcat Cub Club pair students with mentors who provide guidance, stability, and friendship. One fourth-grader shared, “I always look forward to it every day… I always smile when I see her. We have this real deep bond.”
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Caseworker Stacy Williams described OAYA’s impact as a “season of growth.” Through 147 referrals last year, OAYA guided children ages 5–18 and supported families navigating education challenges, attendance concerns, and emotional stress. Stacy emphasized that growth happens “one decision, one skill, and one supportive moment at a time.” Families received resources, emergency assistance, and mini-grants for rent, utilities, and car repairs, ensuring children could thrive despite challenges at home.
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Prevention programs nurtured resilience before crises arose. From “Girls Stand Strong” at the middle school, which teaches friendship, self-esteem, and healthy relationships, to Mindful Movement yoga for younger students, and therapy dog Thursdays providing comfort, OAYA fostered emotional and social growth. Scholarships allowed 27 students to participate in sports and camps, opening doors that financial barriers might have closed.
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Community support amplifies every effort. Hygiene closets at schools, back-to-school drives, and holiday toy campaigns show how collaboration strengthens youth and families. “Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, families, and community partners, our programs continue to thrive. Together, we are shaping brighter futures, one student at a time,” Stacy said.
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For OAYA, growth is not just a theme; it is a living testament to what happens when a community nurtures its youth. Through mentorship, prevention, and unwavering care, the village proves that raising the next generation is a collective endeavor, rooted in kindness, vision, and heart.
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To learn more about OAYA, please visit: https://oxfordaddisonya.org.