Like a Family | Youth Spotlight

They say it’s not where you are that matters; but rather, who you are with.

At Youth Emergency Services (YES), we serve young people coming from crisis, or unstable circumstances. This is why our staff welcomes youth into our programming with open arms, not unlike a loving family.

When Stephen came to YES looking for housing support, he found a place to live—along with a support system.

“Coming to YES, I was shy—I didn’t know anyone,” the program youth recalled. “People were nice. They helped me get comfortable and feel supported.”

Stephen heard about YES’ Transitional Living Program (TLP) while completing the Job Corps program in Omaha. Through TLP, youth receive up to 18 months of residence in independent living-style apartments. There, participants learn to become independent, while also continuing to meet with designated case managers to set and achieve diverse goals.

Eager for a space of his own, Stephen applied to TLP right away. Within a matter of days, he was comfortably living in one of our program houses. More than merely a safe place to live, YES offered Stephen a home. Over time, he discovered a sense of belonging among our program staff and TLP participants and, with that sense, a family.

“1-2 weeks [into the YES program,] I started feeling more comfortable with everyone, feeling more family-oriented,” Stephen said.

Now, the program youth spends his days looking for work, volunteering at our Street Outreach Center, and attending regular program meetings. Between responsibilities, he makes it a point to spend downtime with his newfound family at YES.

Grateful for his experience, Stephen hopes to connect more youth with YES’ housing programs.

“You have so much space at YES; I get to be comfortable here,” he gushed. “I’ve already recommended the program to two of my friends.”