The Village Family Services Hosts Youth Summit on Homelessness Amid Historic Transition to LA County’s New Department of Homeless Services and Housing

Summit to feature State Senator Caroline Menjivar and Molly Rysman of the Department of Homeless Services and Housing and more, alongside youth leaders sharing lived experience

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

North Hollywood, California – The Village Family Services will convene its annual Youth Summit on October 22 at California State Northridge, bringing together youth with lived experience, community leaders, and policymakers to discuss the future of homelessness services in Los Angeles County. This year’s summit comes as the county transitions from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) to the newly formed Department of Homeless Services and Housing (DHSH).

With LA County’s historic move to centralize homeless services under DHSH, the summit will provide an essential platform for young people to engage in shaping policies and programs that directly affect their lives. Youth experiencing homelessness are often excluded from decision-making processes, and The Village Family Services is committed to changing that dynamic.

State Senator Caroline Menjivar will open the event, and Molly Rysman, a leader within DHSH, will share insights into how the new department aims to build a more accountable, transparent, and youth-centered system. In addition to speakers, there will be compelling panels and the opportunity to connect with others who are in the field of homelessness and mental health.

Other highlights of the day include:

  • Panel on the Future of Homeless Services in LA County, featuring La’Toya Cooper (LA Emissary), Molly Rysman (DHSH), and Jerry Jones (Greater LA Coalition on Homelessness). This conversation will explore how Prop 1, the Behavioral Health Services Act, and Measure A are reshaping funding and policy.
  • Spotlight Talk by Dr. Julie Cederbaum (USC School of Social Work) on trauma and resilience in homeless youth.
  • Youth-Led Panel on why housing alone is not enough, with discussions on trauma-informed, culturally relevant, and LGBTQIA+ affirming services.

Now in its second year, the Youth Summit is a training event will bring together over 150 leaders from government, nonprofits, and other key sectors. It’s a powerful opportunity to learn, collaborate, and contribute to real change for our community.

Event Details:
Youth Summit 2025: System Change
October 22, 10:00am – 2:30pm
California State University, Northridge
USU Northridge Center Complex
RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/TVFSSummit

About The Village Family Services
Founded in 1997, The Village Family Services protects children from abuse, preserves families, and builds a stronger, safer community. Serving nearly 2,000 youth and families annually, The Village provides housing, mental health, and foster care services, with a focus on cultural responsiveness and measurable outcomes.

Media Contact:
Elise Roberts
Director of Development and Communications
747.279.6549
[email protected]