Hope Healing Kiwanis Launches Statewide Conference on Youth Homelessness

The Kiwanis District of New Jersey convened its inaugural Hope and Healing Conference on November 6 to combat youth homelessness, bringing together advocates and agency professionals from 18 organizations. With over 17,000 students identified as experiencing homelessness in New Jersey, the event underscored the pressing need for coordinated action. Keynote speaker Dashaan Jennings, a former foster youth, shared his transformative journey from facing adversity to becoming an advocate and leader in his community. Michael Ellithorpe, the New Jersey Kiwanis District Project Chair, highlighted the significance of uniting various stakeholders to amplify the voices of young people facing housing instability. The conference facilitated workshops and networking opportunities, fostering collaboration among community partners, educators, and Kiwanis members.

Frank Cahill, Governor of the New Jersey Kiwanis District, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to supporting youth experiencing homelessness. To date, the Kiwanis Youth Homelessness District Project has raised nearly $40,000 and mobilized countless volunteer hours for local agencies. This conference marks a pivotal step towards a more coordinated approach to youth homelessness in New Jersey.