YSS

Reggie’s Sleepout is just TWO WEEKS away!

Register. Donate. Volunteer. Every way you get involved helps support at-risk and homeless youth in our community.

Join us: https://givebutter.com/RSO2026

For someone struggling with substance use, asking for help can feel like a huge step.

But recovery begins when someone knows they don't have to navigate it alone.

Creating safe spaces to ask questions, talk openly and connect with support can make taking that first step a little easier.

YSS offers resources to help young people and the adults supporting them take action Before It Becomes More.

Find support and prevention resources: https://yss.org/before-it-becomes-more/

Your involvement can make a lasting difference.

The support of a community can make a meaningful difference in the lives of youth, individuals, and families across Iowa. When you choose to show up, give your time, share your support, or simply help spread the word, you become part of something bigger.

See how you can make an impact with YSS today: https://yss.org/get-involved/

It's about helping young people build resilience, develop healthy habits, navigate mental health challenges, find trusted support and make informed choices.

Prevention happens in homes, schools, healthcare settings and communities across Iowa.

When we strengthen the people around young Iowans, we strengthen Iowa.

Find tools and resources to help strengthen Iowa's youth at https://yss.org/before-it-becomes-more/

Building connections. Encouraging healthy habits. Making time to listen to our youth. Talking openly about substance use.

These small, everyday actions can help young people navigate challenges before they escalate.

Across Iowa, we're working to move the conversation upstream and strengthen the people, families and communities that help young Iowans thrive.

Explore prevention resources and learn how you can help at https://yss.org/before-it-becomes-more/

At 14, Ellie was introduced to AMP, a YSS program empowering young people in foster care.

For the first time, she found people who understood her experience.

Through AMP, Ellie built relationships, learned to advocate for herself and found her voice.

“I’ve been able to be more open with what I’ve gone through and not be ashamed.”

Today, she uses that voice to help others, too.

Read Ellie’s story: yss.org/ellies-story/

Building better pathways to support 🤝

When a crisis happens, the right response can make a meaningful difference.

MPACT is one example of what’s possible when community partners bring their expertise together. By working across systems, YSS and the Marshalltown Police Department are creating more opportunities for connection, support and positive outcomes.

This National Co-Responder & Crisis Responder Week, we're recognizing the partnerships that help communitiesrespond with compassion and care.

Want to learn more about MPACT? https://yss.org/about-us/locations/yss-of-marshall-county/

One experience can change what's possible.

When youth feel heard, the impact can reach far beyond a single moment.

If YSS has made a positive difference in your life or the life of someone you care about, we'd be grateful to hear your story, too.

Share your experience by leaving YSS a Google review here: https://tinyurl.com/reviewYSS

United Way Day of Caring at YSS 💙

We're grateful for the time, energy, and care these volunteers shared with us and our community.

Thank you for showing up and giving back!