This journal article describes a study that employed participatory mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to examine the spatial and social environments of homeless youth as they navigated life on the streets. The researchers recruited 28 youth experiencing homelessness in Portland, Oregon, to assess their sense of community and psychological well-being as they moved throughout the city. The results of this study suggest that youth engage most frequently in homeless service-related activities, and their participation in activities is significantly associated with a sense of community and psychological well-being. The researchers discuss how innovative participatory methods can help better understand the diverse experiences of homeless youth as well as having practical implications. For example, service providers could use the participant maps and activity spaces the homeless youth create to inform targets of intervention and goal setting. (author abstract modified)