Our Mission
Home’stead exists to provide unconditional acceptance, stability and opportunity to young people ages 16–24 who are aging out of foster care or facing homelessness. Through a homestead‑style community rooted in work, education and mentorship, we give residents a safe home, the life skills they need to become independent and a new family to belong to. Every young person deserves a place where they feel valued and can grow into a thriving adult.
Our Vision
We envision a self‑sustaining homestead in West Virginia where vulnerable youth can rebuild their lives through meaningful work, community living and long‑term support. Within three years, Home’stead aims to serve at least 20 residents at a time and cover 25–35 percent of its operating costs through farm and community enterprises. Our long‑term goal is to replicate this model across the state so every young adult leaving foster care has access to stability, skills and supportive relationships.
Our Story
Home’stead began with a simple yet urgent question: What happens to teens who age out of foster care in West Virginia? Too often they face homelessness, poverty and isolation. Inspired by our state’s agricultural heritage and a belief that young people thrive in nurturing communities, our founders decided to create a place where youth could learn, work and heal together. We launched Home’stead in 2025 with space for three to five residents and a plan to expand as quickly as resources allow. Today we’re building a family‑style program where residents live on a small farm, learn practical skills like gardening and cooking, and receive consistent mentorship to help them transition into adulthood.
“Home’stead is more than a roof over your head—it’s a family that believes in your future.”
Our Values
- Unconditional acceptance: Everyone deserves dignity, respect and a place to belong.
- Family and community: We live, learn and work together, creating bonds that last well beyond the program.
- Growth and self-sufficiency: Through hands-on agriculture and life skills training, residents gain the confidence and abilities they need to thrive.
- Mentorship and guidance: Caring adults walk alongside each young person, offering encouragement, accountability and a listening ear.
- Resilience and empowerment: We focus on strengths and possibilities rather than labels or limitations.
- Sustainability: We strive to operate responsibly, nurturing both people and the land.