strategic plan update and engagement form

We’re thrilled to share that the results are in from our recent  Community Feedback Survey!

At Friends of Youth, we believe that the best way to serve is by listening—and that’s exactly what we did. We reached out to our incredible community partners with key questions to better understand:

• What needs are most important for the youth, young adults, and families we serve?

• What resources are essential to support them effectively?

• How can we strengthen advocacy and collaboration across our broader community?

The insights we received were powerful, thoughtful, and deeply appreciated. Your voices are helping shape the future of our work—and we’re excited to share a snapshot of what we learned.

You passionately championed the voices of young people, spotlighting their most urgent needs: expanded mental and behavioral health services, access to affordable housing, quality education, strong family and community involvement, career and job training opportunities, essential basic needs support, and mentorship from caring, committed adults.

To bring this vision to life, you identified what Friends of Youth needs to truly make an impact: sustainable funding, highly trained and compassionate staff, energized volunteer support, vibrant cultural and recreational programs, comprehensive wraparound services, and a network of dedicated adult mentors ready to uplift and guide.

As we move forward in our strategic planning process, your input is helping us define our priorities and set meaningful goals for the next three years. This is a vital step in ensuring our work truly reflects the needs, hopes, and values of the youth, young adults, and families we serve.

Your partnership is helping us build a stronger, more responsive, and more connected agency. We’re excited for what’s ahead, and we couldn’t do it without you.

Stay tuned as we continue this journey together!