At just 16, Layla Fausset, Miss Gold Coast Teen Volunteer, is proving that one person can make a big difference. As Casa Pacifica’s Youth Ambassador, she’s raising awareness about the youth mental health crisis and advocating for at-risk children and families. She’s already organized two donation drives to bring comfort and joy to Casa Pacifica’s kids, a reflection of her commitment to making sure every child feels cared for.
We recently had the opportunity to talk with Layla to learn more about what motivates her and her hopes for the future.
What inspired you to get involved with Casa Pacifica?
I’ve always had a heart for helping kids, and when I learned about Casa Pacifica’s work and their commitment to youth mental health, I knew I wanted to support their mission. Every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and hopeful about their future.
You’ve already led two donation drives for Casa Pacifica. What motivated you to take on that effort?
I first got involved with Casa Pacifica for the Prom setup and this led me to get to know about the organization’s amazing mission. I wanted to do something hands-on that could bring joy to youth who are facing mental health challenges. Organizing donation drives was a way to invite others to join me in supporting Casa Pacifica and making sure the children have what they need to feel cared for.
What does being a youth ambassador mean to you?
Being a youth ambassador means using my voice to raise awareness about the challenges kids and teens face, and sharing the positive difference Casa Pacifica makes in the lives of at-risk youth. I want other young people to know they can make an impact, too.
Why do you think it’s important for kids to have happy memories, even when they’re going through tough times?
Happy memories remind us that joy and hope are possible, even in hard moments. They give kids something to hold onto and can inspire them to keep moving forward.
What do you hope to accomplish during your time as Casa Pacifica’s youth ambassador?
My goal is to raise awareness about Casa Pacifica’s life-changing mission and encourage more people—especially other teens—to get involved. I hope to show that no matter your age, you can make a difference.
What message would you like to share with our community of supporters?
Thank you for everything you do to support Casa Pacifica! Together, we’re giving kids the chance to heal, grow, and create memories they’ll treasure forever.
We’re so grateful to have Layla as part of our Casa Pacifica family and can’t wait to see the positive impact she’ll continue to make for vulnerable children and youth!
About Casa Pacifica
Headquartered in Camarillo, California, Casa Pacifica is the largest nonprofit provider of children’s and adolescent mental health services in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. Our nationally accredited programs include residential treatment, therapeutic behavioral services, wraparound care, transitional youth services, school-based mental health services and foster care support, along with a fully certified, diploma-granting Non-Public School serving grades K–12. Casa Pacifica specializes in treating youth facing complex mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. Since 1994, Casa Pacifica has helped transform the lives of nearly 54,600 at-risk children and youth.
For more information or to get involved, email info@casapacifica.org or call 805-366-4040.