Lisa Wright, Mina Koplin, & Nate Meinzer — A Foundation for Independence: Helping Young Adults Move Beyond Homelessness

Welcome to Unsheltered Conversations, the podcast from HomeAid America where we explore the human stories, partnerships, and solutions shaping the conversation around homelessness. This podcast is hosted by Scott Larson, CEO of HomeAid America.For most young people, turning 18 doesn’t mean suddenly becoming completely independent.There may still be parents to call, a bedroom to return to, help with tuition or a car repair, advice about a job, or simply someone who can say, “Come home.”But what happens when that safety net isn’t there?Salt Lake County Youth Services’ Milestone Transitional Living Program serves young adults ages 18–21 who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness, helping them build the stability, skills, relationships, and resources necessary to move toward independence.HomeAid Utah recently partnered with Salt Lake County Youth Services, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Concord Homes, and dozens of trade partners to completely renovate a four-bedroom Milestone home in Sandy.The result is more than a renovated house. It is a place where young adults can begin building their futures.This conversation explores youth homelessness, the transition to adulthood, the importance of supportive services, the role of dignified housing, and what can happen when government, nonprofits, faith communities, and the building industry work together.Guests:Lisa Wright — Executive Director, HomeAid UtahMina Koplin — Section Manager, Salt Lake County Youth ServicesNathan “Nate” Meinzer — Assistant Director of External Operations, Utah Office of Homelessness Services Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HomeAid⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.