Youth Empowerment – Youth Leadership – Anti-Oppression Practice – Youth-Adult Partnership
The Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a leadership and advocacy board comprised of Larkin Street youth dedicated to informing both our direct service and systems change work through paid six-month appointments. YAB’s goal is to promote transparency and youth leadership in decision-making, address common myths surrounding marginally housed and homeless youth, assist youth in identifying and overcoming barriers to exit street life, and empowering leaders to advocate.
YAB prepares young people to pursue careers in public relations, politics, social justice, and public policy if they choose. YAB has also been a critical source of income for those who serve on the board. “I was fired from one of my jobs and I have no work at my other job so I am very grateful that I get to be a part of YAB right now,” said Stella who currently serves on the Youth Advisory Board.
YAB ensures that diverse youth expertise drives agency efforts to improve policies and service delivery. In addition to work within Larkin Street, the Board participates in city and state-wide initiatives related to social justice issues impacting youth of color and LGBTQ+ youth.
During the coronavirus crisis, YAB has been providing public health education to their peers as well as making a video documentary about the experiences of young people impacted by both homelessness and COVID-19.
