NOTE: The author of this piece, Jason Garver, received support from a YSN agency during and after high school. As a high school physics teacher today, he reflects back on some of his story and how his experience shapes his approach to teaching
HUD’s Retreat from Transgender Protections A recent AP News article highlights a significant policy shift under the Trump administration, where the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has moved to halt protections for transgender individuals under the Equal Access Rule. This Obama-era policy was designed to safeguard LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination in HUD-funded housing. The rollback has led to…
In a time of federal funding uncertainty, increased ICE enforcement, and deepening political polarization, staying focused on our mission isn’t always easy—but it’s never been more essential. At Youth Services Network (YSN), our work is grounded in a clear, unwavering purpose: to end youth homelessness in Minnesota. That mission doesn’t pause when the headlines shift. It doesn’t weaken when resources…
Ending youth homelessness requires more than individual programs—it takes a coordinated, strategic approach that aligns systems, amplifies lived experience, and centers equity. At Youth Services Network (YSN), we proudly serve as a backbone organization for Minnesota’s youth homelessness response. But what does that really mean? A backbone organization provides the infrastructure and coordination needed to drive collective impact. Rather than…
In late 2021, Youth Services Network (YSN) adopted a bold strategic plan to guide our work as a statewide network. Today, that plan continues to shape how we pursue equity, impact, and sustainability across Minnesota. Here’s a look at how the six goals of our strategic plan are coming to life: 1. Advocate for Systems Change We’ve elevated youth homelessness…