The Youth Homeless Demonstration Project (YHDP) was created to help reduce the number of unhoused youth in our communities nationwide. Our Homeless Intervention Case Manager, Taya, has recently taken on the role of YHDP System Navigator for the West Central Coalition. As a System Navigator, she serve as a key connector between youth experiencing homelessness and the systems, services, and supports they need to achieve stability. She will engage directly with youth ages 18-24 to provide guidance, advocacy, and system navigation using trauma-informed, youth-centered approaches. Her services will look different depending on the needs of the youth. She can assist with finding housing, employment, and getting them connected to resources that are relevant to their situation. Although the program does not have funding for housing costs, we are working closely with other agencies to connect youth to proper housing assistance programs. If you know of a young adult between the ages of 18-24 who may be interested in receiving system navigation services, please fill out the referral form using this link: https://forms.gle/3FGH5pr7MohkqXUCA.
We are also recruiting youth for our YAB. The Youth Action Board, or “YAB”, is a youth group dedicated to advocating for homeless youth in our communities. It is a group primarily made up of young adults aged 18-24 who have lived experience with being unhoused. Having lived experience is not a requirement to join, but youth with lived experience are given a $50 stipend per month for their time. Meetings are every other Tuesday at 3:30pm. There are virtual and in-person meeting options available. The time and day are subject to change based on the needs of the group. During YAB meetings, youth can expect to participate in group discussions about YHDP. Youth Action Boards were created to provide feedback and guidance on how to evolve YHDP Programs to better support youth. YHDP Programs and YABs understand the importance of youth with lived experience being involved with changing the narrative on how we address youth homelessness. In addition to conversations about YHPD, youth can expect the following:
· A judgement free space to share their story and experiences
· Volunteer opportunities
· Leadership opportunities, like attending Balance of State Annual Conferences
· Discussions with other community leaders and agencies
· Game nights
· And more!
The West Central YAB is tailored to the needs of the youth who join. Any youth who may be interested in joining should contact Taya directly.