Be part of the Squad
Join us from November 1-7 as our YMCA team embarks on a 550-mile Solidarity Journey from San Diego to Sacramento to meet with the governor, carrying a message of hope and unity against youth homelessness. Throughout these days, we'll unite as Californians, collaborating with partners, community members, and public officials to amplify our message and find solutions to end youth homelessness.
Stand with Justin and David, and be one of 550 Solidarity Squad members who will rally, fundraise, and share our mission. Your contribution, whether big or small, fuels our shared purpose and magnifies our impact. Become a part of the Solidarity Squad today to help us eliminate youth homelessness and unlock behind-the-scenes content and official SOJO merchandise. Together, we walk for hope, and unite for change.
THE Y’S ROLE IN ENDING HOMELESSNESS
Our YMCA Youth & Family Services branch works alongside young people experiencing housing instability or homelessness to provide critical supports such as drop-in centers, hotel vouchers, emergency housing, rental and deposit assistance, and transitional housing services.
By ensuring young people have a safe place to live, a reliable support system, encouragement to pursue their goals, and access to the resources they need to flourish, our Y staff, partners, volunteers, and donors continue to help bring about meaningful and lasting change for the youth and families of our community.
ABOUT THE CRISIS
California leads in youth homelessness, exceeding one-third of the nation's total. Prevent homelessness early: Half of adults first experience it under 25.
Youth, 18.3% of CA homeless, require tailored solutions rooted in community efforts. Vulnerable youth disproportionately homeless: LGBTQ+, youth of color, former foster youth, and others.
IMPACT NUMBERS
California leads in youth homelessness, exceeding one-third of the nation's total. Prevent homelessness early: Half of adults first experience it under 25.
1,033
495
2,036
1,116
OUR PARTNERS:
Anonymous Community Member, Hope Dealer
Alaska Airlines, Changemaker
San Diego Foundation, Community Hero
Interested in making an even bigger impact for youth?
FUEL THE JOURNEY!
Check out the SoJo Cali playlist! Become an official squad member to add your own songs to the list.
Step 2: Login to your Spotify account.
Step 3: Congratulations! You are now an official SOJOCALI - Fuel The Journey Playlist Collaborator. It's your turn to add songs that resonate with your journey, share your vibes, and give us the tunes that inspire and fuel our adventures.
By giving, you'll receive a link to become a collaborator on this playlist. Together, we'll turn this playlist into a sonic masterpiece that fuels our journey, wherever it may take us. Let the music unite us and drive us forward! #FuelTheJourney #SOJOCALIPlaylist
IN THE NEWS
Esquivel is vice president of social services at the YMCA of San Diego County and lives in Encinitas.
Two YMCA employees have embarked on a unique three-day journey to call attention to the issue of youth homelessness.
On Friday, David Baker and Justin Lipford finished a 125-mile walk from Long Beach to San Ysidro. Along the way, they hosted rallies, met with local leaders and walked with other people to raise awareness for youth homelessness.
On July 16, 2019, YMCA Youth & Family Services staff David Baker testified before Congress at the House Committee on Education and Labor, Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services to support the reauthorization of the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act.
Exclusive SOJO Merchandise with your gift
Embark on a journey of solidarity with us! We believe in the power of unity, and to show our appreciation for your generous support, every donor contributing $50 or more will receive our exclusive "Solidarity Journey" Beanie. Crafted with care and adorned with a unique design, this custom beanie is more than just an accessory—it's a symbol of your commitment to solidarity and making a positive impact. Expect the beanie to be mailed to you in December.
#SOJOCALI
Inspired to share your own story?
Share your moments of hope and unity during this journey using the hashtag #SOJOCALI, and you might find your posts gracing the virtual pages of this site.
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We appreciate you and your generosity to make our community a better place. Thank you!
