While Pathfinders’ Shelter is designed to house youth temporarily, the team works hard to nurture trusting, supportive relationships with young people that extend beyond their stay. One of the ways they do this is by hosting groups on Sundays. These groups function as engagement for current residents and aftercare for former residents. They cover a wide range of themes from safe sex and healthy relationships to fun activity field days to honoring local tragedies and speaking about violence in the community.
Hear more about the impact of this initiative from Angelica Morales (pictured right), Youth & Family Advocate and group co-host:
“Our Sunday groups have become a powerful source of consistency in the lives of our youth. A steady space they can count on. They know who will be there to greet them, they know when we’ll be open and they know that each group offers something to look forward to. It’s more than just a gathering, it’s a rhythm of safety, support and connection.
What makes these groups truly special is the mutual exchange of growth. We get the honor of learning through our youth’s eyes, seeing the world from their unique perspectives. In return, we hope they take away something meaningful from our conversations, shared meals and creative activities.
The impact becomes especially clear when youth return to us. For some, Sunday group is a place they choose instead of running away or being on the streets. Others tell us it’s the one space they feel safe just showing up as they are. We’ve welcomed youth back after hard weeks and we’ve celebrated with them when they share wins like getting a job, doing well in school or reconnecting with family. When past participants return and rejoin our current house, it serves as a living example that our message is real: we will always be here.
There’s something special about the space we’ve created. When you step into the back area where we host group, it feels like stepping into a world of its own. A place where time slows down and real conversations begin. Some youth stay even after group ends at 2:30 PM, eager to keep working on projects or simply to stay in the energy of our space.
But what I love most are the relationships we build. The trust, the laughter, the honest conversations. Sunday group is more than a program; it’s a promise. A promise that no matter what, there’s always space, always support and always someone who cares.”
Want to learn more about Pathfinders’ services for youth experiencing homelessness? Contact Pathfinders’ Development Team at Development@PathfindersMKE.org.
