Today’s #BeKind21 message is from Safe Place for Youth. 

Kindness is integral to the work we do at Safe Place for Youth (SPY). Our mission is to empower young people experiencing homelessness to thrive by providing lasting, community-driven solutions that address racial and social inequity. To do this, we start with building a caring connection. This can start with something small such as offering someone water or a meal. These acts of kindness allow SPY staff to begin to build a bridge and connect young people to services such as housing.

SPY provides resources that allow young people to build the skills they need to create a self-directed, stable life. Education and Employment (E+E) support is critical. Last year, 105 youth gained employment and 101 enrolled in education. Our E+E team offers curated support to youth members—helping them build their resumes, prepare for job interviews, connecting them with workforce development opportunities and tutoring. 

“I’ve always wanted to be a person that goes to college, but I never thought it was possible for me based on my financial situation and my prior family experience. Being with SPY and working with my Case Manager, who told me it was possible, that it may take time, that you can always figure out a way to do what you want. She helped me figure out who to call… she stuck with me even when it got frustrating and it helped keep me encouraged to continue my education.” Kyla, a resident at a SPY housing program.

Working with the E+E program youth gain the confidence to pursue their education or employment goals. Through workshops and webinars hosted by staff and community members, youth are exposed to new career paths and are able to broaden their horizons on what is possible for their future.

With support from the community and their peers, unhoused youth can create bright futures. 

Your kindness challenge today: Visit SPY’s Amazon Wishlist, or organize a sock or underwear drive for SPY or for a local shelter serving people experiencing homelessness. You can also check in with your local shelters to learn if there are any volunteer opportunities for you to offer mentoring or tutoring services. 

Follow SPY @safeplaceforyouth, and learn more and get involved to help end youth homelessness by visiting safeplaceforyouth.org.

In Kindness,

Safe Place for Youth

P.S. Invite someone to join the challenge: bornthisway.foundation/bekind21.