Giving Folks A Chance In Medford, Ore.

Courtesy of David Gi - A young girl hangs out at the Maslow Project....
The Maslow Project teaches homeless children how to cope and become self-sufficient, using methods such as art therapy.

  • The mission of the Maslow Project in Medford: To increase the coping skills of, and self-sufficiency in, young people who are homeless — to give them a decent chance in the adult world.
  • Founder and Executive Director Mary Ferrell was born and raised in Medford.
  • Lacey Renae is the group's counselor and art therapist. Most art supplies are donated by the local community.

The community also collects clothing for Jessica's Closet, a free shop for young people that is run by volunteers. During the 2011-2012 school year, 1,400 clients visited the Project.

David Gibb is a photographer in Jacksonville, Ore., and listens to Jefferson Public Radio.

Copyright 2012 National Public Radio. To see more, visit http://www.npr.org/.