Supporting Youth in Los Angeles
Olga Flores has spent her entire career in social services, building deep expertise in housing solutions and the realities young people face across Los Angeles County. At The Village Family Service (TVFS), her work focuses on supporting youth experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles, connecting transitional-aged youth (TAY) to the right support and helping each young person move toward stability, independence, and a future they define for themselves.
Over the past year, TVFS served 465 young people through its housing continuum. This work includes bridge housing, transitional housing, prevention, problem solving, and rapid rehousing. Each program meets young people where they are, offering practical support alongside relationship-centered care that recognizes their strengths and goals.
Olga works across these services to ensure young people do not have to navigate systems alone. She connects youth to Connect LA to explore family relationships, helps them access immediate shelter through Bridge Emergency Beds, and supports their transition into permanent housing through Time-Limited Subsidy. Her work centers on listening, trust, and consistent follow-through.
Housing That Meets Young People Where They Are
TVFS offers a range of housing options designed to support young people at different points in their journey.
Bridge Emergency Beds provide immediate access to a safe, 24-hour residence for up to 90 days. During that time, staff work closely with each young person to identify next steps and connect them to longer-term housing.
Transitional Housing offers a longer-term option, allowing youth to stay for up to 36 months while building stability through supportive services, life skills, and planning.
Time-Limited Subsidy helps young people move quickly into permanent housing. This program provides financial assistance, housing navigation, and case management for up to 24 months, supporting long-term stability in the community.
Together, these programs reflect a Housing First approach that prioritizes access, dignity, and choice. Olga helps each young person identify the pathway that aligns with their goals.
A Career Rooted in Purpose
In honor of Women’s History Month, Olga shared what motivates her work and how women have shaped her journey.
What motivates you to do this work every day?
I am motivated to do this work every day because I want to use my skills and lived experiences to help create a stronger, more hopeful future for young adults. I am especially driven by the resilience of the youth we serve and the responsibility we carry to open doors that may have once felt out of reach.
What has this work taught you about yourself?
This work has taught me that I am always evolving and that there is always something new to learn, understand, and improve. It has also shown me the strength in staying grounded, adaptable, and committed to growth, even in the most complex and challenging moments.
What change do you hope to see for the next generation of women or girls?
I hope to see a generation of women and girls who feel empowered to lead, solve problems, and make decisions with confidence and purpose. I want them to have access to opportunities, support, and mentorship that allow them to walk boldly on a path that is healthy, self-defined, and full of possibility.
How have other women influenced your journey here?
Other women have influenced my journey through their ambition, courage, and determination, regardless of their background or circumstances. I have been inspired by women who challenged expectations, stepped beyond traditional roles, and reshaped their narratives to build stronger, healthier futures for themselves and those around them.
The Impact of People Like Olga
People like Olga make this work possible. Every connection she builds and every step she takes alongside a young person reflects a shared commitment to ensuring youth have the support and opportunity to build the futures they envision
Check out this video interview with Olga from a few years back to learn even more about the work she does and impact she makes.
