County Deputy Probation Officer Helps Launch Nonprofit to Assist Foster Youth
NEVADA COUNTY, Calif. – January 21, 2025 – One of the biggest challenges former foster youth face as they transition into independence is getting reliable transportation. They can’t get to school or a job if they don’t have a ride.
Nevada County Deputy Probation Officer Karyn Mueller hopes to alleviate that with her new nonprofit, Beyond the Barriers California, formed in partnership with Helena Heinzelman, foster youth specialist for the Nevada County Superintendent of Schools.
The group assists former foster youth ages 18-25 by giving them donated cars, paying for vehicle repairs, providing roadside service and offering vehicle education. So far, the nonprofit has delivered two cars and will soon deliver a third car to struggling young people. They helped another young person with insurance and AAA roadside service.
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Not having a car is a huge barrier to former foster youth in becoming independent, said Mueller. “This can completely derail somebody.”
As just one of many examples, Mueller cited a young man who managed to save up for a car but on a rainy day slid into a ditch and couldn’t get out. CHP called a tow truck to pull it out but the young person didn’t have the $200 to pay for it. Then his car was impounded.
“He’s 19 years old and is literally on his own with no family,” Mueller said, adding that she was eventually able to help him get the car back.
Heinzelman added that there are many young people in the area that are facing similar circumstances. “They don’t have the resources, no parents or a family that can buy them that first car, get them to work, get them to school,” she said. “They live way out. There is no bus, no way for them to get around.”
Beyond the Barriers California was able to raise over $7,600 in its fundraising campaign in December and secured matching donations from Dutch Bros. Certified Automotive Repair has helped out with fixing up and smogging donated cars at the lowest possible price.
The group is now working to raise an additional $10,000 and is grateful for any donations.
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