Youth and Shelter Services (YSS) is one of Iowa’s leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to empowering youth and families through a wide range of support programs. Established in 1976, YSS has been a beacon of hope for thousands of young people, offering services designed to address mental health, substance use, crisis intervention, and mentorship.
With a focus on holistic care, YSS provides addiction treatment through its Ember Recovery program, helping youth overcome substance use challenges in a structured and supportive environment. The organization also offers counseling and therapy services for individuals of all ages, ensuring access to licensed professionals who provide guidance and mental health support. For those in immediate need, YSS operates crisis stabilization centers and emergency shelters, providing safety, food, and care to young people facing difficult circumstances.
Prevention and early intervention are at the heart of YSS’s mission. The organization runs educational initiatives aimed at promoting healthy decision-making, addressing issues like substance use prevention, suicide awareness, and adolescent pregnancy. Additionally, its mentoring programs create meaningful connections between young people and trusted adult mentors, fostering positive relationships and personal growth. For younger children, YSS offers afterschool and summer programs that encourage learning, engagement, and development.
The impact of YSS is evident in the thousands of lives it touches each year. With over 21,000 counseling sessions provided, more than 300 children matched with mentors, and nearly 13,000 families receiving support, YSS continues to make a significant difference. Headquartered in Ames, the organization operates multiple locations across Iowa, tailoring its services to meet the unique needs of each community.
A recent initiative, funded by the Lived Experience Impact Grant, focuses on workforce development for youth involved in child welfare and juvenile justice systems, providing them with valuable skills through sustainable farming projects. This is just one example of how YSS continues to evolve and expand its efforts to create brighter futures for Iowa’s youth.
