OUR WORK
OUR MISSION & VALUES
Y2Y Network is building student-led programming to interrupt the cycle of homelessness for a generation of young adults. Y2Y Network employs a youth-to-youth model to provide a safe and affirming environment for young adults 18-24 experiencing homelessness.
Y2Y guests have opportunities to collaborate with service providers, other youth experiencing homelessness, and student volunteers to create sustainable pathways out of homelessness and develop skills for long-term success. Y2Y provides opportunities for both guests and volunteers to become the next generation’s leading advocates for youth-driven solutions to homelessness.
DIGNITY
Dignity is for everyone. We believe everyone deserves to feel pride and self-worth, and we are committed to ensuring that all people are treated with the utmost respect and kindness.
SAFETY
Consulting
Our priority is to maintain an environment where everyone, including all our guests and volunteers, feel completely safe. We continually strive to ensure not only their physical safety, but their emotional safety as well. This is a space of comfort and trust.
ADAPTABILITY
We never stop growing and improving. Quantitative and qualitative surveys and assessments allow us to continually update and adapt our programming to ensure that we are providing the absolute best service possible.
COLLABORATION
Everything we do is a team effort, from day-to-day operations to advocacy and leadership. We thrive on a connected environment, bringing together the unique skills of expert service providers, community members, local institutions, motivated students, and young adults experiencing homelessness to achieve meaningful goals and create positive change.
AFFIRMATION
We are open to all lived experiences and strive to create a non-judgmental, open, and affirming space for young people of all backgrounds, gender identities and sexual orientations.
OUR PROGRAM
SANCTUARY
We have more than doubled the number of easily accessible beds for young adults ages 18-24 in the Greater Boston area in order to provide a safe and affirming overnight environment that is welcoming to all young people.
Using a trauma-informed approach, we provide our guests with a safe overnight environment that is welcoming to everyone. Our space is gender-inclusive, with a staff dedicated to ensuring that all young people feel safe and comfortable accessing our services.
PATHWAYS
Student-led case management
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On-site medical and mental healthcare
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Skills workshops, professional development opportunities and access to legal aid
ADVOCACY
Y2Y guests and student volunteers work together to shape policies that affect youth experiencing homelessness
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Both guests and students have the opportunity to become leaders in creating social change by bringing their own experience to the table