TGTHR hosted a very special Community Social and Youth Panel on December 6th. Nearly 90 people gathered together to socialize, connect, and to hear more about the experience of homelessness directly from young people.
Annie Bacci, TGTHR CEO, facilitated the conversation with six young people who have participated in TGTHR housing programs. The youth panelists worked with Annie leading up to the event to co-create the format and questions for the conversation.
The youth who participated in the panel shared their unique experiences and perspectives, and we are proud to be here to support them in their journey. The conversation was honest and eye-opening for many in the audience, as panelists shed light on some systemic community-wide issues. These recurring themes, such as the complexities of obtaining paperwork for a state ID, the difficulties navigating community resources, or the lack of affordable housing, show us the realities of their experiences.
We also heard a lot of gratitude, positivity, and hopefulness throughout the conversation. “I had no idea that places like TGTHR existed and I was so happy when I found it,” shared one panelist. “I feel hopeful for the future!” These young people have a safe place to sleep tonight and exciting goals for the future thanks to TGTHR programs and this supportive community.
At TGTHR we strive to center the work we do around youth, their experiences, their voice, and their needs. We are grateful so many people were able to join us for this insightful evening and for the support of our wonderful TGTHR community in the efforts to end youth homelessness.
Join us as we work to be one of the first cities in the country where no young person is living on the streets, and every young person has the chance to thrive!
