Empowering Youth, Reducing incarceration
Reducing youth incarceration through education, mentorship,
and community support.
Who We Are
The Once Was Lost Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to mentoring incarcerated youth toward brighter futures and preventing at-risk youth from entering the cycle of incarceration.
OWL’s mission is to support young people impacted by the juvenile justice system by walking alongside them as they navigate their journey towards rehabilitation and reintegration into society. OWL also aims to reduce the risk of incarceration for at-risk youth by providing opportunities for personal growth through sports, arts and education.
What We Do
Care Packages
OWL provides “care packages” upon their release back into society. These care packages include: shoes, clothes and hygiene products.
For Incarcerated Youth:
Mentorship
On a weekly basis, OWL team members dedicate their time and energy into providing guidance and support to help them build a brighter future.
Food & Fellowship
On a monthly basis, we provide a tasty lunch for the youthful offenders and staff. We take the opportunity to break bread, fellowship, and build relationships.
Sports
We sponsor registration fees for youth to participate in Baseball, Basketball, Football, Gymnastics, Soccer, Swimming
Academic Tutoring
OWL promotes education by providing sponsorship for youth to receive academic tutoring in math and reading.
The Arts
OWL aims to inspire creativity and self-expression through engaging in art and music classes.