GRAND RAPIDS HQ
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Mission Statement
HQ's mission is to create a safe and affirming space where youth can find rest, build connections, and pursue their passions to realize their dreams. HQ opened in December of 2014 as Grand Rapids' first drop-in center for runaway and homeless youth. HQ was made possible by the community recognizing a need for a safe space for youth where they can rebuild trust in adults and social service providers, before engaging with youth services and then working together to launch HQ. HQ works with youth ages 14-24 during multiple drop-in sessions each week by providing a safe and welcoming space with a strong emphasis on inclusion and equity for youth experiencing housing instability.
About This Cause
HQ provides services based on the philosophy of rest, resources, and readiness. We believe first, youth must find a place to find rest, feel safe, and be affirmed exactly as they are, prior to being able to address their current crisis. This is accomplished through drop-in where youth build relationships with staff and community partners. During drop-in, youth have access to resources at no cost (e.g.: showers, laundry facility, kitchen/meal, computer lab, and hygiene items) and the opportunity to create connections with HQ staff and other community service providers that operate out of HQ’s space. HQ also has expanded its work with youth to extend beyond drop-in hours in others areas of service such as employment, education, and data collection. Third is readiness. The act opportunity and support to go out and pursue one’s dreams. Youth are given opportunities to expand upon learned job readiness skills by participating in paid youth ambassador work at HQ, providing leadership during events, and obtaining supportive employment through HQ’s business partners.