Transforming the Holidays
For many, the holiday season is a time for family, tradition, and celebration. But for Erin Clews, a Youth Advocate Mentor at John Burton Advocates for Youth (JBAY), the holidays were once a stark reminder of isolation. JBAY Interim Executive Director Debbie Raucher recently spoke with Erin about her reflections on the season and her hopes for the year ahead. Growing up without family traditions and entering the system at age 13, Erin spent her teenage years in group homes where the season brought little comfort. She recalls one December when every other youth in her group home visited family, leaving her alone. “I felt forgotten and unloved,” Erin shared. This feeling of isolation was compounded by her December birthday, emphasizing her belief that she was alone in the world.
As Erin transitioned into young adulthood, new challenges arose. She often struggled to accept gestures of kindness during the holidays, lashing out in frustration. According to Raucher, Erin’s experience is far from unique. “For many foster youth, the end of the year highlights the absences in their lives, stirring up memories of loss and trauma,” she explained.
Yet, as Erin moved forward in her journey, she found opportunities to redefine what the holidays could mean. The passage of time, becoming a mother to two boys, and the community she discovered through her university’s campus support program became the foundation for new traditions. This year, Erin looked forward to spending Christmas Day with her two sons—watching movies, opening presents, and baking cookies together. She also found joy in celebrating with other foster youth on campus, creating shared traditions like cooking meals and playing games, including a lively Harry Potter trivia match this year.
Reflecting on her evolution, Erin shared, “I’ve learned to transcend what family looks like and find connection beyond blood relatives. My chosen family and community have become central to my life, and sharing this understanding with my sons is incredibly meaningful.” She also emphasized the importance of sensitivity around the holiday season, recognizing how it can remain a difficult time for many foster youth.
Erin’s reflections are not limited to the holidays. This past year brought significant milestones in her life. She transitioned from being a JBAY Youth Advocate to mentoring others in the program, a role she describes as deeply fulfilling. She’s particularly excited about JBAY’s proposed legislation for 2025 to reform how institutions set financial aid limits by establishing a maximum Cost of Attendance, an issue that created challenges for her during her time in school. Erin will also graduate this year from UC Santa Cruz with a bachelor’s degree in history and critical race and ethnic studies—a major milestone that is a testament to her resilience and determination.
The JBAY team is thrilled to have Erin working by our side once again in the year ahead.