National Network for Youth would like to extend a big thank you to Kimberly A. Waller, former Associate Commissioner for the Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB), as she transitions to a new role. At FYSB, Kimberly worked tirelessly alongside providers, youth with lived expertise, and advocates to advance policies and initiatives that support young people and families in need.
During her time as Associate Commissioner, Kimberly’s dedication and passion have been indispensable in our collective fight to prevent and end youth homelessness. She has supported NN4Y’s efforts in clarifying grant regulations for Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) grantees and initiating a new Youth Homelessness Prevention funding stream using RHY funds. Kimberly has also been a key part of multiple NN4Y National Summits. In 2022, she was the keynote speaker, highlighting FYSB’s work developing a strategic plan, partnering with youth with lived experience, and emphasizing prevention. In 2024, she participated in the Federal Agency Roundtable Discussion and joined us in celebrating the 50th anniversary of NN4Y and the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act.
Highlights of Kimberly’s tenure as Associate Commissioner:
- Issued November 16, 2023: RHY Information Memorandum – Supporting Youth and Young Adults Experiencing Homelessness Who Identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Two-Spirit and Other Identities including Non-binary and Gender Nonconforming Youth and Young Adults (LGBTQIA2S+)
- Issued January 11, 2024: Leveraging the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) Program for Eligible Youth Experiencing or At-Risk of Experiencing Homelessness
- Issued January 28, 2024: FYSB Information Memorandum – Leading in Partnership with Youth and Young Adults
Kimberly has been a wonderful ally to providers, advocates, and young people during her time at FYSB. We know she will continue to do impactful and fantastic work in her new role, and we wish her all the best.