A Better Way Out

Built by people who found their way out.

Mentorship and steady support for young people in Whatcom County, from mentors who have walked the same roads and know the way through.

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Volunteers pulling wagons of supplies down a sunlit street at the start of an outreach day
Heading out with supplies for street outreach in downtown Bellingham, September 2026.
Oct 31 Next event Night of Testimonies — Real People. Real Stories. Real Hope. 500 N. 14th St., Lynden. 5:00–7:00 PM, pizza and snacks provided. Event details
The A Better Way Out emblem: a tree of life with deep roots

Our mission is to empower at-risk youth through mentorship, education, and support, providing them with a better way out toward a brighter future.

Many of our mentors carry their own stories of gangs, addiction, prison, and rebuilding. They meet young people where they are, without shame or labels, and walk alongside them toward hope, resilience, and a new vision for their lives.

Meet the people behind it

Four ways we show up.

  • Coping tools for stress, trauma, and pressure, with check-ins and connections to trusted counselors.

  • One-on-one conversations, guidance, and consistent encouragement from someone who has been there.

  • Helping parents, guardians, and youth rebuild communication and trust at home.

  • Links to local churches, employers, schools, and housing help that support the road ahead.

How each service works

Out in the community.

See upcoming events
Tents and families at Jam on the River, with the A Better Way Out booth in the middle
Our booth at Jam on the River, Ferndale, June 2026.
Two volunteers in A Better Way Out shirts preparing supply bags on a downtown sidewalk
Packing supply bags before a street outreach, September 2026.
A Better Way Out volunteers gathered for a group photo in a parking lot
Volunteers after homeless outreach in Bellingham, April 2026.
Three women from A Better Way Out at the booth table with giveaways
Meeting families at the booth, Jam on the River.

Hear it in their words.

Conversations with our team and community about where they’ve been and what changed.

Watch the interviews
Community conversation

Walk with the next young person who needs a way out.

Give

Your donation goes straight into mentorship, outreach, and family support for young people in Whatcom County. Donations are tax-deductible.

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Volunteer

Serve at outreach days, staff a booth, or mentor. Message us on Facebook and we’ll tell you what’s coming up.

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