This month, Building Changes spent meaningful time in Spokane, deepening relationships with local partners and learning alongside organizations advancing community-driven solutions to youth and family homelessness. Through a series of visits and conversations, we strengthened our collective commitment to building a more equitable Washington—one where every young person and family has a safe, stable place to call home.
We began our trip at the Northeast Community Center, home to the Spokane Wellness Zone (ZONE), where we learned about their holistic, place-based model supporting families experiencing housing instability—particularly those considered “hidden homeless.” ZONE Director Jena Ray and Vocational Navigator Mandie Norman led a tour of the center’s on-site behavioral health services, school-based youth programs, senior supports, and employment development spaces. A highlight was the Youth Wellness Zone, a student-led initiative addressing mental health and violence prevention through peer mentorship and advocacy. These young leaders have not only developed impactful, community-based solutions but have also elevated their voices to state legislators and city leadership, demonstrating the powerful role youth can play in shaping systems that impact their lives.
Open Doors, an HSSP grantee at the Next Generation Zone, discussed the intersection of workforce development and housing stability for youth and young adults. Their collaborative model connects education, employment, and supportive services under one roof, creating a streamlined pathway toward long-term stability. Case managers emphasized a flexible, family-centered approach—meeting people where they are, identifying practical next steps, and collaborating across providers to connect families with the resources they need. As one case manager shared, “I always try to put myself in their shoes and ask, ‘What would I do to improve my housing stability?’” This approach helps families navigate challenges more quickly and confidently, with support that respects their goals and realities.
Later that evening, we gathered with partners at Twigs Bistro for our Spring Happy Hour—a casual yet meaningful opportunity to connect with organizations supported by the Washington Youth & Families Fund, the Homeless Student Stability Program, and our colleagues from the Office of Homeless Youth (OHY) and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). For many, it was a first opportunity to meet face-to-face. Our team especially enjoyed connecting with Malena Fairlight Pinkham, one of our newest Board members, who brought humor and warmth to the gathering. New relationships were formed, longstanding partnerships celebrated, and moments of joy and laughter reinforced the importance of the community we are building together.
Our time in Spokane concluded with the first of four Communities of Practice (CoP) convenings, co-hosted with OHY and OSPI. Held at the ESD 101 building, the convening brought together representatives from five school districts, three nonprofit organizations, and state agency partners. Participants shared best practices, challenged common misconceptions, and explored strategies for better aligning systems to support students experiencing homelessness. These spaces are essential for cultivating shared understanding, continuous learning, and a collective commitment to systemic change.
We also visited Mujeres in Action (MiA), a Washington Youth & Families Fund grantee providing culturally responsive housing, domestic violence, and sexual assault services to undocumented and Spanish-speaking communities in Spokane. In a vibrant, community-created space filled with affirmations and art, we engaged in open and thoughtful dialogue with the MiA team. Rather than focusing on compliance, we approached the conversation with curiosity and partnership—clarifying funding flexibility, listening to operational challenges, and working through real-life scenarios to ensure their services best meet community needs. This visit reaffirmed that authentic, person-to-person engagement is the foundation of lasting, trust-based partnerships.
At Building Changes, we know that the most effective and equitable solutions are rooted in partnership and community leadership. Our visit to Spokane reminded us that when we listen deeply, engage authentically, and lead with trust, we not only strengthen our work—we strengthen the systems and communities we serve.
We are honored to partner with such dedicated leaders and grateful for the opportunity to be in community with those working every day to create a Washington where all families and young people can thrive.
Learn more about the Homeless Student Stability Program and the Washington Youth & Families Fund.
