Summary
Making the Shift is a youth homelessness social innovation lab dedicated to funding, conducting, prototyping, and mobilizing innovative research to prevent and end youth homelessness in Canada. In partnership with leading Indigenous and homelessness organizations, they organized a two-day knowledge-sharing gathering focused on addressing youth homelessness within Indigenous communities, with an emphasis on improving outcomes for Indigenous youth. The event brought together researchers, community partners, youth, and Elders.
The Report generated from the gathering’s talking circles is structured in two sections: the first section highlights key themes and insights shared during the circles and the second section discusses successes, opportunities for change, and potential actions moving forward.
Policy & Practice Implications
- Community organizations can strengthen youth homelessness programs by building trust with youth, prioritizing youth leadership, and promoting cultural empowerment, leading to more holistic and effective services for Indigenous youth.
- Programs and service providers should aim to create culturally safe spaces that include support from Elders, Knowledge Holders, and counselors. This approach can significantly enhance healing and well-being among youth by supporting their mental, emotional, and spiritual health in culturally relevant and respectful ways.
- Policymakers can advocate for reforming the child welfare system and reducing barriers to education and employment. Creating more equitable systems, supports, and funding structures will help address the disproportionate impacts of institutions on Indigenous youth.
Image source: https://makingtheshiftinc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Making-the-Shift-Indigenous-Land-Based-Research-Gathering.pdf
