“Things were very, very, very bad.” That was the beginning of what turned out to be the best conversation I’ve had this week. A young person in one of our programs was telling me about his journey. He went on to say that he found Avenues and our staff helped him get a technical certificate and find a great job with a national company. He is saving money and thinking about where he wants to live; as he says “I can go anywhere with this company” proudly pointing to his hat with the company logo. He thanked me for the work we do at Avenues and said that Avenues saved his life.
– A story shared by Executive Director Katherine Meerse
Simply put, February was fabulous!
Every young person felt the love (and the sugar high) from the treats and sweets provided by our wonderful community partners. Thanks to a generous contribution of BIPOC authored books from Kim C. and family, Avenues provided reading opportunities for all youth to read, learn, and grow during Black History Month!
Just like the young person mentioned above with the great new job, every youth at Avenues deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams. This is why we are supporting important public policy at the state capitol to fund our shelter system, streamlining shelter access information for young people in Hennepin County, and with your support providing all of the wrap-around supports they need.
March provides us all with important opportunities to advocate and celebrate the work of ending youth homelessness. From lobbying for lifesaving legislation to attending Building on Dreams, we hope to see you this month!