Youthnet Receives $25,000 Bequest to Support Foster Youth Transitioning to Independence

August 18, 2025 - Youthnet, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting foster children, youth, and families across Northwest Washington, is honored to announce a $25,000 bequest from the late Patricia Eskola. Patricia designated that her gift be directed to Youthnet’s Independent Living Program, which helps young people aging out of foster care build the skills and resources they need to succeed on their own.

A Legacy Rooted in Compassion:

Patricia Eskola, born in 1923, was just six years old when she entered foster care during the Great Depression while her mother recovered from illness. Although she eventually returned home, she never forgot her peers who did not have the same chance.

“When my Aunt was updating her will two years ago, she said she wanted to donate to a charity that would help foster kids once they age out of the foster program,” shared Deborah Robinson, Patricia’s niece and executor of her estate. “She remembered that she knew she would get out of the foster home as soon as her mother was better, but her friends in the foster home would not be going home. She thought about them often.”

Deborah connected with Youthnet after learning about the organization through family members who had adopted two boys from its foster care program. “When she heard about Youthnet’s Independent Living Program, she knew immediately that this was where she wanted her gift to make an impact,” Robinson added.

Youthnet’s Independent Living Program:

Youthnet’s Independent Living Program provides essential support to young adults, ages 15-22, who are aging out of foster care or facing homelessness. The program focuses on building life skills, securing safe housing, pursuing education or employment, and developing the confidence to live independently.

Each year, Youthnet serves dozens of young people in Skagit, Island, San Juan, Snohomish,
and Whatcom counties, providing coaching, mentorship, and practical tools to help them
transition successfully into adulthood. Without programs like this, many foster youth face
unstable housing, interrupted education, or cycles of poverty.

“Too often, foster youth age out of the system without the support they need to succeed,” explained Sara Rylaarsdam, Director of Programs at Youthnet. “Patricia’s generosity ensures that these young adults are not alone. That they have a community standing behind them as they take those first steps into independence.”

Patricia’s bequest will directly strengthen the Independent Living Program, ensuring that Youthnet can expand services, provide emergency housing support, and cover essential living needs for participants who often have no safety net.

“Patricia’s legacy is a powerful reminder of how one person’s compassion can change the trajectory of many lives,” said Jon Rylaarsdam, Executive Director of Youthnet. “Her gift allows us to give foster youth the stability and skills they need to thrive as adults, and we are humbled by her trust in our mission.”

About Youthnet:

Founded in 1969, Youthnet is a nonprofit organization serving Northwest Washington through foster care, youth mentoring, family support, and transitional living programs. Youthnet works to strengthen communities by giving children and young adults the tools and support they need to succeed, no matter their background or challenges.

With a mission to empower individuals through community-based support, Youthnet partners with local organizations to offer comprehensive resources that promote stability, independence,and personal growth for children, youth, and families. Visit www.youthnetnw.net for more information.

Media Contact:
Olivia Knott
Media Coordinator, Youthnet
Cell: (360) 420-8904
Email: oknott@youthnetnw.net
www.youthnetnw.net