At the heart of Rite of Passage is a profound commitment to improving the lives of youth. Founded in 1984, the organization has evolved from a single group home in the Sierra Nevada Mountains into a national leader in youth services, driven by the belief that every child deserves a chance to succeed. The culture is built on the principles of safety, normalcy, and the power of positive relationships. Staff are not just employees but mentors and advocates who work tirelessly to create environments where vulnerable youth can heal, learn, and grow.
The organization values the 'rite of passage' itself—the transition from troubled adolescence to responsible adulthood—and fosters a community where resilience is celebrated. Through evidence-based, trauma-responsive programs, the team works collaboratively to empower young people, providing them with the education, vocational skills, and therapeutic support necessary to rewrite their stories. This mission-driven approach creates a workplace defined by camaraderie, shared purpose, and a relentless dedication to making a tangible difference in the communities they serve.