UT503 Youth Action and Advocacy

Vision

Our vision is a Utah where every young person has a safe and stable place to call home. We are committed to ending youth homelessness by ensuring that all youth have access to affordable housing and comprehensive supportive services. Through collaboration, innovation, and compassion, we will create a community where every young person can thrive and reach their full potential.

Purpose of the Workgroup:

The purpose of the Youth Action and Advocacy Workgroup (Workgroup) is to empower youth leaders, including those with lived experience, to guide, define, and improve the systems that prevent and end youth homelessness in the Balance of State.

  • Improve programs and services for Youth
  • Guide the Youth Action Board

Structure of the Workgroup:

  • Membership structure
    • Number of members
      • 29
    • Positions
      • Chair, Co-Chair, OHS Support
    • Meeting frequency
      • Monthly 1-hour meetings
  • Each LHC will designate one voting member to ensure effective decision-making. (REQUIRED)

Functions of the Workgroup:

  • Measurable Goals
    • Goal 1
      • Reduce the number of youth experiencing homelessness throughout the Balance of State
    • Goal 2
      • Increase permanent and transitional housing options for youth
    • Goal 3
      • Improve access to emergency shelter for youth experiencing homelessness in the Balance of State
  • Data collection methods
    • OHS data team (UHMIS), Homelessness Annual Report Dashboard, McKinney-Vento liaisons, OHS data team, Youth Futures, Homelessness Annual Report Dashboard, SHARPS Survey, PIT Count, US Census
  • Monitoring and Reporting
    • The Workgroup will work with the Collaborative Applicant to plan mechanisms for monitoring progress, adjusting strategies and providing feedback to the CoC.
  • Resources
    • comprehensive resource document for youth experiencing homelessness
  • Education and Awareness
    • The Workgroup will engage in education and awareness-raising efforts to improve the community’s understanding of youth homelessness.
  • Quarterly report to the UT 503 Executive Committee (TBD) and the UT 503 membership during all meetings (REQUIRED)
  • Workgroup Meeting Info:
    • Meeting Time/Date: Monthly on the second Thursday; 2:00-3:00pm; (3/13/25)
    • Leadership: Chair-Heidi Rugg, Co-Chair-Ryan Steinbeigle
    • Current Projects: Coordinated Community Plan, apply for YHDP funding; professional development