A message from Executive Director Kim Justice

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Office of homeless youth

Sept. 5, 2024

A message from Executive Director Kim Justice

After nine years serving as the first Executive Director of the Office of Homeless Youth, it is bittersweet to share that I will be stepping down from my role. I plan to transition in mid-October.

It has been an honor to work alongside such incredibly strong partners. Together, we have envisioned and achieved remarkable progress, including a significant 40% reduction in youth and young adult homelessness since 2016. Our collective accomplishments reflect the dedication and hard work of everyone involved including service providers, government, philanthropy, advocacy organizations, and the inspiring young leaders whose voices and experiences are the heart of this movement.

Since its inception, the Office of Homeless Youth has seen extraordinary growth. State funding to help young people secure housing and community resources has increased from $10 million to over $90 million per biennium, allowing us to bridge geographic gaps. We’ve secured two HUD Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program awards, channeling federal resources into rural areas statewide. With new interventions and strategies in place, we are better equipped to prevent youth homelessness. Additionally, a robust network of young leaders is actively engaged as partners and decision-makers, playing a crucial role in advancing our mission.

I am confident that the Office of Homeless Youth will continue to grow stronger under new leadership. As we make space for fresh perspectives and innovative approaches, I have every faith that the team will sustain and expand upon the tremendous work we’ve accomplished together. The core values of prioritizing young people and addressing racial inequities will remain the bedrock of this office.

Words cannot fully capture my gratitude for the chance to serve in this role. The learning and growth I have experienced over the years have been immeasurable, and I am deeply thankful for the support and collaboration of each of you.

As for my next chapter, I am pursuing a new opportunity and look forward to sharing more updates in the near future.

Thank you for the incredible journey, and for all that we have achieved together. I look forward to seeing the continued progress and success of the Office of Homeless Youth.

With gratitude,

Kim Justice signature

Kim Justice