In El Dorado County, child abuse rates are higher than the California average | | |
Locally, child abuse often hides in plain sight. It can look like a child taking on adult responsibilities too early, missing school, or struggling with basic needs like food, safety, and stability. In El Dorado County, neglect accounts for the majority of cases, often linked to economic hardship and housing instability. These are usually layered challenges with exposure to substance use and family crisis. During Child Abuse Prevention Month, we are reminded that behind every statistic is a child who deserves to be seen, supported, and above all, protected without exception. Tahoe Youth and Family Services turns awareness into action by offering counseling that empowers families to heal, reconnect, and build safer, stronger futures for their children.
| | Expanding Access, Strengthening Futures: Join Tahoe Youth and Family Services to expand Medi-Cal access for nonprofits | | Tahoe Youth and Family Services is proud to support AB 2352, a critical step toward expanding Medi-Cal access for small nonprofits serving vulnerable youth and families. Alongside the California Behavioral Health Association, we are advocating for key priority legislation moving through Sacramento that strengthens behavioral health infrastructure, increases access to care, and supports early intervention services across California. These efforts are essential to ensuring our community's youth and families receive the care they deserve, when and where they need it most. We encourage you to help move this forward by staying informed, reaching out to legislators, and sharing why access to mental health services matters in our community. Advocacy at every level, whether it is a conversation or a letter of support, helps ensure these policies become a reality. Together lets amplify the voices of youth and families and create a system where care is accessible and timely for all. | |
Partnering with families and schools through the
PRIMARY INTERVENTION PROJECT (PIP)
| | In classrooms across our community, 40-90 children are carrying big emotions and find difficulty connecting with others. PIP steps in early to offer support when it matters the most, Serving students in kindergarten through third grade, PIP creates a safe and supportive space through weekly non- directive play sessions where children can express themselves, build confidence, and begin to make sense of their feelings. With the guidance of trained aides and oversight of mental health professionals, children develop coping skills, strengthen relationships, and re-engage in the classroom before challenges deepen. | | |
"I moved to South Lake Tahoe nearly three years ago and soon joined Tahoe Youth & Family Services as a PIP Aide. Before that, I worked in Special Education in Orange County, supporting students with a wide range of disabilities, especially those on the autism spectrum.”
-Jim Haider, PIP AIDE (featured in picture above)
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"Being able to give back to the same community where I grew up and attended school is especially meaningful to me. I believe that when children feel heard and supported, they are more likely to grow and succeed. By nurturing their potential today, we help create a better, more stable world for all. Since joining TYFS in 2023, one of the most rewarding parts of my work has been seeing students gain confidence and discover new ways to express themselves."
-Claudia Davila, PIP AIDE (featured in picture)
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A simple click can make an instant impact: Amazon Wishlist
Make a direct and lasting impact on the lives of local children, youth, and families by supporting Tahoe Youth and Family Services through our Amazon Wishlist. Each item has been intentionally chosen by the people doing the work every day; our counselors, play therapists, housing staff, and program teams to meet the real and immediate needs of those we serve.From tools that help children safely express and process trauma through non-directive play therapy, to essentials that create stability and dignity for youth in our transitional housing program, every contribution helps restore a sense of safety, belonging, and hope. We invite you to take a moment to explore the wishlist and be part of something deeply meaningful.
Shop Here
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Rooted in Community: Earth Day inspires the next generation | Each year, South Lake Tahoe's Earth Day Festival brings hundreds of community members together for one of the region's largest environmental education events. This free, family-friendly event celebrates with live music and vendors with interactive booths and hands-on activities focused on sustainability and protection of Tahoe's natural beauty. Tahoe Youth and Family Services plays an active role by engaging local youth and families, helping inspire the next generation to care for and protect the community they call home. Visitors to our booth receive native wildflowers to enhance their own natural gardens. We hope to see you April 18, 2026, at Lake Tahoe Community College (1 College Dr) from 10:00am-3:00pm. |
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Experiencing the Power of Documentary Film
The Lake Tahoe Documentary Film Festival is an annual event that brings powerful, thought-provoking films to the heart of the Tahoe community. Showcasing both emerging and established filmmakers, the festival highlights real stories that inspire conversation, awareness, and social impact. This year, Tahoe Youth and Family Services is present to support the connection between on-screen stories and real resources in our local community. Stop in and say hello April 18, 2026, at Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe (4130 Lake Tahoe Blvd.) from 10:00am-10:00pm.
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