Uplifting Youth Voice
Empowering youth to impact change through storytelling.
Hunter Carter
Spotlight Story
When Hunter exited foster care at 19, he faced housing and financial challenges that could have easily derailed his future. Instead, he pushed forward, eventually securing housing with Sunrise Lofts, a residency program for foster youth stepping into adulthood. Sunrise Lofts, an active member of the Greater Houston Opportunity Youth Collaborative (GHOYC), introduced Hunter to the Alliance of Community Assistance Ministries (ACAM) where he secured an internship in the Peer Navigator Program. This opportunity shifted his perspective and helped him realize he had a potential pathway to long-term growth and success. As Hunter shared, “I always thought I would just stay in fast food because it was getting me by, but I wanted to go out and make something more of myself.”
With the support of the Young Adult Action and Advisory Council (YAAAC), Hunter took on leadership and advocacy roles, now serving as the Administrator of the YAAAC Leadership Team, where he directs initiatives to uplift and spread the voices of other opportunity youth. His journey is proof that resilience, paired with the right navigation through GHOYC, can open doors that once felt out of reach.
Peer Interviews:
Listen as local youth share personal stories of perseverance.
Gerardo Diaz
The GHOYC’s Young Adult Action Advisory Council (YAAAC) proudly curated this compelling video interview with local opportunity youth, Gerardo Diaz. Directed, produced, edited, and featuring members of the YAAAC, this interview delves into Gerardo’s journey through local systems, his personal life, and his engagement with GHOYC initiatives and partners. Gerardo’s story of resilience, perseverance, and survival serves as an inspiring message to Houston’s Gen Z, demonstrating their strength and ability to find light in the darkest times.
Jaqueline Hernandez
The Young Adult Action Advisory Council (YAAAC) also had the opportunity to connect with Jaqueline Hernandez, a proud Houston native, to hear her inspiring story. Jaqueline opened up about the challenges she faced growing up and how her involvement with local nonprofits helped shape her path forward. Now, as a former member of YAAAC and a new mother, she shares her excitement for the future and her commitment to uplifting other young adults in her community.
Fostering Purpose with Young Adults
“After hearing about GHOYC at a stakeholder meeting, I applied for the chance to gain hands-on experience and connect with meaningful work in Houston. As someone who lives far away, I’ve especially appreciated the welcoming staff and the financial assistance with transportation. It’s made my experience with YAAAC both accessible and rewarding.”
-Ariel Morrow, YAAAC Member
“The YAAAC has given me a sense of purpose by giving me a role in the community.”
-Evan, Former YAAAC Member
Testimonials from our Partners:
Hear more about how GHOYC network partners are making an impact in the lives of young adults across the Texas Gulf Coast Region.
Memorial Assistance Ministries Pathways for Young Adults
Brought to you by Memorial Assistance Ministries (MAM), this video provides a program overview and touching testimonials from participants of the Pathways for Young Adults Program. This customized employment services program prepares young adults for high-demand careers through personalized coaching, wraparound support, and job training. MAM’s dedication to crafting an employment program tailored to meet the unique needs of young adults has demonstrated that when youth are have the right guidance and support they can attain jobs that lead to a brighter future.
Wesley Community Center Spirit of Resilience: Alex’s Story
Seeking entry into a viable career pathway Alex found a future in healthcare through Wesley Community Center’s career training track. With support from Wesley Community Center career services Alex gained his Patient Care Technician certification while building the confidence and ability needed to land a position at a hospital.
Through Wesley’s career services, young adults not only earn certifications they leave well-rounded and determined to become self-sufficient. This holistic approach ensures youth are not just completing a program, but are leaving with the tools needed for success.
Texas Network of Youth Services (TNOYS) LaBraia’s Story
LaBraia, a member of TNOYS’ Texas Emerging Leaders Board, shares her own experience as an Opportunity Youth (OY) in this compelling video. During a period of homelessness while in college, she struggled to maintain her grades, employment, and basic needs. Listen as she reflects on the assistance that would have been most useful during her time in college - such as help applying for financial aid and mental health resources. She shares a message to Opportunity Youth that while their path might look different, that doesn’t make it less valuable. To OY allies, she encourages adults to proactively bridge the gaps that young people cannot cross on their own.