Hope & Healing for Houseless Youth:
Building Resiliency Through Youth Development
Room 2020, 2nd Floor
This interactive session will explore how youth development programming—grounded in healing-centered and resiliency-based strategies—can provide transformational support for houseless and housing-insecure youth. Drawing from the Community Resiliency Model (CRM) and the insights of Shawn Ginwright’s Healing Centered Engagement, we will explore how to create emotionally safe spaces, build identity and belonging, and nurture agency among youth experiencing housing instability. Participants will learn how to use practical, trauma-informed strategies that build resilience regardless of a young person’s current life circumstances—emphasizing strengths over symptoms and aspiration over adversity.
Abra Smith’s journey started in the K-12 education system, but her true calling emerged in the out-of-school-time sector, where she channels her passion for equity, empowerment, and healing. As a community wellness advocate, Abra has poured her heart into her work with KYD Network, where she proudly serves as Executive Director, leading with purpose and compassion. She’s committed to creating spaces where both youth and adults can heal, thrive, and embrace their well-being. Abra dreams of a world where young people are equipped with the tools to nurture their inner strength, build meaningful connections, and create communities that break down barriers. What started as a desire to make a difference in the classroom has blossomed into a broader mission to positively impact young lives in powerful ways. When she’s not working, Abra enjoys exploring new adventures, jamming out to 90s R&B, traveling, and spending time with loved ones—especially when it involves delicious food and fun games.
Joy Parson, has been committed to youth development since 2023. She began her career as a coordinator for an afterschool program and went on to lead summer programming for middle and high school students. Over the past year, Joy organized and launched a youth cabinet in Calhoun County, creating a platform for young people to have a voice in their community. She also served as support staff at Battle Creek Central High School, where she taught students skills in emotional regulation and personal growth. Joy is passionate about empowering youth through education, leadership opportunities, and holistic support. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys family time and is a proud aunt to five nephews and four nieces
Genesis Griffin, (she/her) serves as the Program Coordinator for Confident S.O.L.E. and Youth Leadership Coordinator at the Kalamazoo Youth Development Network. With nearly 7 years of experience mentoring youth and a lifetime of lived experience in out-of-school time programs, Genesis brings deep understanding, passion, and dedication to her work. Born and raised on the Northside of Kalamazoo, she has a strong connection to her community and specializes in fostering interpersonal communication and resolving conflict between youth and adults. Genesis is known as a powerful force in every space she enters, bringing a positive attitude and tireless energy to motivate others to work hard and succeed. She has a strong community voice serving and shows up as her authentic self. She works tirelessly to ensure she creates spaces for others to do the same. She is pursuing her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Youth and Community Development and seeks to continue to serve Kalamazoo youth to create a community where all youth thrive.