“There is no greater reward than working from your heart, and making a difference in the world.”
Victoria Evans
Founder + Executive Director
On October 18th, 1999, Victoria Evans experienced a loss that would shape her life and lead her down a path of compassion and determination. Her mother, Jeanette Anderson, passed away suddenly from meningitis at the young age of 41. At just 18 years old, Victoria was faced with the devastating reality of losing a parent. She had brothers, Jason, Eddie, & Allen who were also struggling to navigate through life without their mother’s guidance.
As she grieved and tried to make sense of her new reality, she realized that while her family and friends did all they could to support her, they didn’t understand the magnitude of her loss. This realization sparked an idea in Victoria’s mind – one that would later become known as Bereaved Youth Village.
Victoria understood firsthand the trauma and isolation that comes with losing a parent at a young age. She knew how crucial it was to have support and guidance during such a difficult time in life. After having children of her own and meeting other young individuals who had also lost their parents, Victoria saw these grieving youth had the same feeling of isolation; there was a need for a safe space where they could come together and build a community of support. For years she considered starting a non-profit for bereaved youth but for one reason or another it kept being delayed.
Then in October 2022, she tragically lost her dear cousin Dee with him leaving behind a six-year-old son. She felt regret for delaying the vision and not having the support in place as soon as he needed it. She put the wheels in motion and Bereaved Youth Village was founded and is now the only non-profit in Texas that offers support to bereaved youth.
Our Team
We have assembled a dedicated team that has proven their commitment to being the village for bereaved youth. Our team consists of bereaved youth and the immediate support of bereaved youth which allows us to gain different perspectives on how to best support our bereaved youth. Together, we bring a wealth of personal experience and unwavering compassion to our work. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that our mission is carried out and the families we connect with feel supported.
Purpose
The purpose of Bereaved Youth Village is to build a supportive and inclusive network, provide positive role models and peer support. Our goal is to promote positive growth and to remind children they are not alone in their grief. Our programs are non-therapeutic, community-based, and volunteer-driven.