About Us

Citizens for Safe Schools (CFSS) is a 501(c)3 youth-serving nonprofit, operating in the Klamath Basin for over 23 years. Our primary programs focus on mentoring youth in a variety of ways, including adult-to-youth, peer-to-peer, and youth-adult-partnership. It is our mission to create a safe and drug free community where all children, especially those at risk for delinquency, academic failure, or victimization have opportunities to build resiliency and character – and that all adults feel empowered to help them.

Our History

CFSS was founded in 1999, when community educators and leaders became concerned that students were not coming to class ready to learn – often due to extreme stressors like bullying, economic disadvantage, or challenges at home. As a result, a community-wide change initiative, combined with a strategy of one-to-one mentoring for high needs youth, was implemented as a way to improve school climate, increase student academic performance, and reduce the likelihood of dropout and delinquency. Since January 2021, CFSS has grown from one to six programs, and has opened a Citizens Institute for Character – a Mentor and youth drop-in center for participating in activities, and providing a place for youth to connect to community resources.

Why We Mentor

Klamath County has an overwhelming number of youths impacted by adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Adult and childhood poverty rates in the Klamath Basin are 46-56% higher than other counties in Oregon, even though 3 in 4 households are working families. In addition, Klamath County reports 200-300 school children with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) at any given time. 

Mentors can help lessen impacts of ACEs through positive relationships and encouragement needed for youth to thrive. Mentors exemplify good character and inspire their mentee to do the same. Mentors are positive role models for youth. They do not replace parents or guardians, but they DO guarantee youth have someone that cares about them, listens objectively, is there consistently, and encourages them to pursue their goals.

Through donations, grants, and fundraising events Citizens for Safe Schools has returned substantial dollars in programs and services to Klamath County. Our Mentors have given over 100,000 volunteer hours to Klamath County at-risk youth.