Maria Raquel Thomas is the first ever National Youth Ambassador for StandUp for Kids non-profit.

About Standup for kids

StandUp for Kids is a nationally recognized non-profit charity that works directly with thousands of homeless youth across the country. Our organization was founded in 1990 by a group of volunteers in San Diego, CA. Starting from a program in one city, StandUp for Kids has grown to sustain locations in 18 cities across 11 states and the District of Columbia. We remain a nearly all-volunteer organization that prioritizes the needs of the youth we serve. 

Simply put, we are here to empower homeless and at-risk youth toward lifelong personal growth, and to create in these youth a sincere belief in themselves through open, straightforward counseling, mentoring, and life-skills training. 

Donate Today. Youth Get Help. How to Help.

We must end the cycle of youth homelessness. Click here to stand along with Ria to fight the battle by donating to Standup for Kids today.

We must end the cycle of youth homelessness. Click here to stand along with Maria Raquel Thomas to fight the battle by donating to Standup for Kids today.