Where Youth Dream Big

Who We Are

Our Mission

Claudia House empowers justice-involved young adults ages 18–25 through safe housing, life skills, education, employment support, and compassionate guidance so they can build independent and meaningful futures.

Our Inspiration

Claudia House was inspired by Claudia and Will Kaul, a white couple from Minnesota who built a diverse family by adopting children from South Korea, China, India, and the African American community. Their family reflected the belief that love, belonging, and opportunity should transcend race, culture, and background. Their story inspired Claudia House to embody diversity and inclusion, a microcosm of the broader community where young people from all backgrounds can feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to build their futures.

The young people we serve have been involved with Oregon’s justice system to varying degrees and may come from diverse backgrounds and have different histories, identities, beliefs, and needs. We welcome youth from all backgrounds and walks of life, including youth of different races, cultures, ethnicities, national origins, immigration backgrounds, religions or beliefs, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, socioeconomic backgrounds, political perspectives, and life experiences.

As a matter of equity, when considering whom we are best positioned to serve, we give priority to the most vulnerable and disadvantaged members of our communities, considering the totality of their circumstances and needs. This may include immigrants and refugees, who may face additional barriers and have fewer resources when navigating the justice system.

We do not define a young person solely by their past or circumstances. Our overarching consideration in accepting a youth is whether Claudia House can safely and appropriately meet their identified needs. When we can, we welcome the opportunity to support them with dignity, respect, accountability, and the belief that people can grow, change, and build a better future.