King County Youth of Color Needs Assessment: The Experiences, Strengths, & Needs of Homeless and Unstably Housed Youth of Color
Type
Year published
Accession number
25521
Title
King County Youth of Color Needs Assessment: The Experiences, Strengths, & Needs of Homeless and Unstably Housed Youth of Color
Organization
The Northwest Network of Bisexual, Trans, Lesbian & Gay Survivors of Abuse
Abstract
This report presents the findings from a systematic examination of the overrepresentation of homelessness among youth of color in King County, WA. This project used a participatory, community-based approach that incorporated the feedback and guidance of community partners and youth leaders of color. The researchers conducted 12 focus groups countywide, from September to December 2016, that sought to understand the experiences of and the contexts surrounding homelessness among this population. In total, 103 young people, ages 13 to 24, participated in the focus groups. The researchers adapted the Five Domains of Wellbeing Framework to create a context for and connection between the key themes of the project. This report outlines the four major takeaways from the project based on the themes that emerged from the focus groups, along with policy and practice recommendations. The takeaways are: 1) Structural racism undergirds the experiences of homelessness for young people of color; 2) The complex role of families should be recognized; 3) Building relationships with homeless young people of color is essential for supporting them; and 4) Young people of color want flexible, strengths-based supports that affirm their self-determination and meet their basic needs. (author abstract modified)
Availability details
Full report available for free download on the NW Network website at: https://www.nwnetwork.org/youth-of-color-needs-assessment/