For Lavain, an affordable home meant more than stability—it gave him the confidence to advocate for others.
A few years ago, Lavain made a vision board of a better future—one where he had a home and a cat to keep him company. After moving from shelter to shelter for two years, his vision became a reality. Lavain found an affordable home, adopted cats, and through his involvement with Youth United for Community Action in East Palo Alto, became part of a community that embraced him.
“Home is love. Home is safety. Home is comfort.”
By finding a home and a supportive community, Lavain also discovered his voice. He now mentors youth and helps them advocate for youth facing housing insecurity.
When we empower youth to lead, we get closer to a more just and caring Bay Area.
Lavain’s story was told in collaboration with Youth United for Community Action (YUCA) as part of the Stories of Home Initiative. YUCA is a grassroots community organization created, led, and run by young people of color—the majority from low-income communities. They provide a safe space for young people to empower themselves and work for environmental and social justice.