Twins Jordan and Devan escaped generational poverty and found themselves on the road toward embodying their ideal selves. Being educated, healthy and financially stable once was only a fantasy, but with the help of Youth Villages and strong support systems, Jordan and Devan have found themselves living their wildest dreams. Poverty, anxiety and depression can make it impossible to help yourself, but there will always be someone equipped to help you. As Youth Villages mental health professional Becky Smith explains, doing better is a skill, not a will -- and sometimes, we just need to be taught.

Since the interview–Both Jordan and Devan now work for Youth Villages. Jordan, a Mentor Liaison, helps with recruiting, training, and managing volunteers who mentor the youth participating in Youth Villages' services. Devan, a Clinical Applications Specialist, provides IT support and training for the digital tools used by the clinical team. Jordan and Devan also participate in public speaking events representing Youth Villages and advocating for child welfare programs.

Links from the show

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-8255

• Learn more about all the programs at Youth Villages here.

• Join the force for families. 101 locations across 23 states (including D.C.) Check out open positions near you.

Full show description

• www.youthvillages.org/podcast

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• Twitter - @youthvillages

• YouTube - youtube.com/user/youthvillages

• LinkedIn – linkedin.com/school/youth-villages

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