PRESS RELEASE

LAS VEGAS – Olive Crest in Nevada, a nonprofit organization that transforms the lives of abused and at-risk children through the healing power of family, received a $10,000 grant from Bank of America for the agency’s Operation Independence program. Operation Independence assists current or former young adults in the child welfare system, age 16 – 24, with identifying and achieving their educational and employment goals as they transition out of the system. As young adults make this transition, the program helps alleviate potential barriers that will allow them to learn valuable life skills to lead an independent and successful life. Media is invited to attend a check presentation at a special BBQ for Operation Independence clients, Aug. 24 beginning at 6 p.m., 2301 Redwood St. Las Vegas, NV, at the apartment complex front leasing office.

Operation Independence provides young adults a safe, furnished apartment with pre-selected roommates, a resident advisor, a case-manager to support self-sufficiency goals, living expenses, therapy, mentoring, independent living skills workshops, job readiness training and a saving match program for those who graduate from the program.

“Because of the trauma and instability kids in the child welfare system have experienced the transitioning process can be difficult when they leave the system,” said Myesha Wilson, executive director, Olive Crest in Nevada. “Operation Independence provides a stable network of resources for these kids. We’re very grateful to Bank of America for supporting this critical need program.”

“We’re excited to partner with Olive Crest in Nevada as part of our #SummerOfGiving campaign,” said Bank of America Community Relations Manager Ashlee Washington. “Operation Independence is a natural fit for our commitment to building thriving communities.”

“Operation Independence has taught me so many new skills,” said Marvin, a former youth in foster care who graduated from the Operation Independence program in June and is in the final stages of receiving his certification in graphic designing and is holding down a full-time job.

About Olive Crest
Since 1973, Olive Crest has transformed the lives of over 100,000 abused, neglected, and at-risk children and their families. We work tirelessly to meet the individual needs of kids in crisis by providing safe homes, counseling, and education for both youth and parents. Our many innovative programs reflect our conviction that strengthening the family is one of the most powerful ways to help heal children. With unwavering compassion, the Olive Crest family maintains a lifelong commitment to the youth and families we serve, even after they have graduated from our programs.

Olive Crest in Nevada serves nearly 3,500 children and families each year. For more information on Olive Crest in Nevada or to make a donation, please call 702-685-3459 or visit www.olivecrest.org/nv.