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Introduction to the Speaker

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Barbara DuBois, Professor of Social Work, University of California, Berkeley

Dr. DuBois is a renowned expert in youth homelessness with a distinguished career in research, teaching, and advocacy. Her groundbreaking research has shed light on the experiences of homeless youth, particularly focusing on the intersection of race, gender, and sexual orientation. Dr. DuBois has authored numerous publications, including the influential book "Homeless Youth: Exploring the Life Course," which has significantly shaped the field. Her work has informed policy and practice at local, state, and national levels, making her a highly respected voice in the fight against youth homelessness.

Symposium Program Guide

1. What do we know about the problems and the client system?

• Presenter: Dr. Emily Martinez, Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work, City University of New York
• Presentation Title: "Understanding the Complexities of Youth Homelessness: A Multi-layered Perspective"
• Description: This presentation will delve into the multifaceted factors contributing to youth homelessness, including systemic issues, individual risk factors, and the impact of trauma.

2. What are the global implications of the problems and solutions?

• Presenter: Dr. James Lee, Director, Global Youth Homelessness Research Network
• Presentation Title: "Youth Homelessness: A Global Perspective and Strategies for Change"
• Description: This presentation will explore the global dimensions of youth homelessness, examining its prevalence, causes, and consequences across different countries and cultures. It will also discuss international best practices and strategies for addressing this complex issue.

3. What are current interventions used to address the problem or problems?

• Presenter: Ms. Sarah Jones, Program Director, Youth Shelter, City of Los Angeles
• Presentation Title: "Effective Interventions for Homeless Youth: From Shelter to Supportive Housing"
• Description: This presentation will review a range of evidence-based interventions for homeless youth, including emergency shelter, transitional housing, street outreach, and case management services.

4. How are this problem and client system impacted by technology?

• Presenter: Mr. David Chen, Technology Director, National Alliance to End Homelessness
• Presentation Title: "Leveraging Technology to End Youth Homelessness: From Data-Driven Solutions to Digital Empowerment"
• Description: This presentation will explore how technology is impacting the lives of homeless youth, examining both the challenges and opportunities. Topics will include the digital divide, the use of technology for outreach and service delivery, and the potential of technology to empower youth.

5. What software is available to address the issues? How can technology, in general, be used to address solutions?

• Presenter: Ms. Maria Garcia, Data Analyst, The Doe Fund
• Presentation Title: "Utilizing Data and Technology to Improve Outcomes for Homeless Youth"
• Description: This presentation will showcase software tools and technologies that can be used to address youth homelessness, such as data management systems, case management software, and mobile applications for outreach and service delivery.

6. What are the latest emerging interventions, and what are their prospects for success?

• Presenter: Dr. Michael Smith, Research Scientist, Chapin Hall Center for Children
• Presentation Title: "Innovative Approaches to Ending Youth Homelessness: Promising Practices and Future Directions"
• Description: This presentation will explore emerging interventions and promising practices in the field of youth homelessness, including innovative housing models, youth-led initiatives, and the role of trauma-informed care.

Symposium Brochure: Addressing the Needs of Homeless Youth

About This Symposium

This symposium will explore the multifaceted challenges faced by homeless youth, a vulnerable population grappling with a complex array of social, economic, and personal issues. Homeless youth, defined as individuals aged 18-25 experiencing homelessness, often face significant barriers to education, employment, and accessing essential services.

Key Factors Contributing to Youth Homelessness:

• Poverty: Poverty is a significant driver of youth homelessness, particularly for those who have aged out of foster care or experienced family instability.
• Family Dysfunction: Family conflict, abuse, and neglect are major contributors, often forcing young people to flee their homes.
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse: Many homeless youth struggle with mental health conditions (depression, anxiety) and substance abuse issues, which can exacerbate their homelessness.
• Lack of Supportive Networks: The absence of strong family and community support systems can leave youth vulnerable to homelessness.
• Discrimination: Discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and race can increase the risk of homelessness for marginalized youth.

Global Implications:

Youth homelessness is a global issue with significant social and economic consequences. It contributes to increased rates of poverty, crime, and poor health outcomes. Addressing this issue requires a multi-sectoral approach that involves collaboration between governments, non-profit organizations, and communities.