NN4Y is committed to ensuring that our work is driven directly by the priorities of young people. The NYAC provides young adults the opportunity to set NN4Y’s priorities and focus, ensuring that our work consistently supports our mission and amplifies the voice of youth with lived experience nationally.
NYAC members grow as leaders for change and play a vital role in shaping NN4Y’s priorities and strategies. To date, we have trained over 35 National Youth Advisory Council members to take an active role in crafting a policy advocacy plan, speaking about federal policies that impacted their lives, and educating policymakers to transform systems.
NYAC members represent every US region and 17 states: Alaska, California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Washington, DC.
Are you interested in joining the NYAC? Want to nominate someone?
Empowering Youth Leaders: Highlights from the 2025 Fall Leadership Retreat
This October, new and returning members of the National Youth Advisory Council (NYAC) traveled from across the country to New York City to attend the 2025 Fall Leadership Retreat. Held October 26–28, 2025, and hosted at Baker McKenzie, these young leaders with lived experience of homelessness came together to connect, build skills, and shape NN4Y’s national advocacy to prevent and end youth homelessness.
Celebrating Our Partners
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, Baker McKenzie and Grantmakers for Girls of Color, for making this retreat possible. Their support ensures that young people with lived experience of homelessness can lead, learn, and shape national strategies to prevent and end youth homelessness.
Baker McKenzie’s pro bono work engages teams of problem-solvers on the most compelling social justice challenges around the globe where their teams, both inside their Firm and from their corporate colleagues, can make an impact.
Grantmakers for Girls of Color (G4GC) is a leading national philanthropic intermediary organization that invests in the ecosystems that support and follow the leadership of our youth in the United States and in U.S. territories.
Mission
To educate policymakers, service providers, and community officials throughout the country about youth and young adult homelessness and advocate for solutions so that no young person in America has to experience even one day of homelessness.
Vision
To empower and amplify the voices of young leaders with lived experience of homelessness to transform systems.
Meet the National Youth Advisory Council
As part of the NYAC, members work together to help address some of the most pressing ethical and moral issues facing youth experiencing homelessness.
NYAC Current Members
Tori Ikeda is from the island of O‘ahu in Hawai‘i and channels her lived experiences into advocacy and peer support. Motivated by her own journey, Tori is deeply committed to empowering system-involved youth to heal, lead, and shape the programs and policies that impact their lives. Tori provides one-on-one support to youth and young adults navigating systems, helping them build confidence and access resources that foster stability and growth. Beyond her direct work, she serves on Hawai‘i’s Juvenile Justice State Advisory Council Youth Committee, where she helps advance prevention, diversion, and youth-centered reform efforts statewide.
Amber Matthews is the Program Associate at Detroit Phoenix Center.
Amber leads all youth leadership programming at Detroit Phoenix Center, creating empowering spaces for young people to grow, lead, and thrive. With a passion rooted in lived experience, she shows up every day with heart, purpose, and a commitment to being the person she once needed. Her work centers youth voice, wellness, and meaningful impact.
Amber is also planning to return to school to study social work and criminal justice, deepening her ability to advocate for youth and systems change at every level.
Cj Melendez is a passionate community leader dedicated to empowering young people and inspiring change. Rooted in lived experience, Cj leads with empathy, purpose, and authenticity.Using every opportunity to amplify youth voices and build stronger, more connected communities. His work reflects a deep commitment to growth, equity, and belonging.
Cj is the Founder and CEO of Break the System Project (BTS Project), a youth-led organization based on the South Side of Chicago. BTS bridges the gap between survival and success by providing housing referrals to local shelters and offering targeted programs that equip young adults with the tools they need to thrive beyond survival.
Marcellus is a grassroots organizer and youth consultant from Oklahoma who began working in youth homelessness in 2023 after joining the OKC Youth Action Board (YAB), where they served until 2025. Drawing from their lived experience of couch surfing and navigating the homelessness response system, Marcellus partners with service providers to strengthen authentic youth-adult collaboration and ensure young people are meaningfully engaged in decision-making spaces.
They have served on their local Continuum of Care (CoC) Board, contributed to Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP) efforts, and became a Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS). Marcellus has presented locally and federally on developing Youth Action Boards and defining what authentic partnership and shared power truly look like in practice.
Shortly after joining the YAB, Marcellus founded “OKC Reparations,” a mutual aid initiative supporting marginalized communities whose labor is often uncredited and uncompensated. Through creating accessible graphics, sharing resources, and organizing community support, they center the belief of “solidarity, not charity.” Prioritizing mutual aid allows them to balance systems-level advocacy with direct community care supporting people not only in survival, but beyond it.
NYAC Alumni
Etelvina E. Arevalo A. (she/her) serves on NN4Y’s National Youth Advisory Council (NYAC) and brings lived experience of housing instability in Minnesota. She helps youth teams turn values into practice—centering dignity, equity, and youth–adult partnership. Her focus areas include cultural humility, trauma-aware care, harm reduction, plain-language resources, and making systems easier to navigate. In Minnesota, she supports Youth Action Board and Continuum of Care leadership, co-hosts resource-sharing meetups, and contributes to Coordinated Entry redesign and training efforts. Whether facilitating a huddle or building tools like trackers and checklists, Etelvina’s aim is constant: practical changes that help young people across Minnesota.
David Baker serves as a Support Specialist with the YMCA Youth & Family Services department in San Diego, California. As a survivor or extreme-poverty and intergenerational homelessness, he is eager to advocate for young people experiencing homelessness in America and demonstrate the potential of opportunity youth, when given the tools and resources, to thrive. David proudly uses his lived experience to develop his organization’s basic center, transitional living, and street outreach programs.
Brittney Barros, after living with neglect, entered her first time in care at the age of 11. After struggling for a long time, her mom finally regained custody of Brittney and her siblings. Watching her mom beat drug addiction and getting a stable home gave Brittney hope for her family. However, a year later her brother crashed the car into the house and became homeless. After living in dirty motels, outside, and couch surfing for seven months, she re-entered the foster care system where she lived in different foster homes and a group home. Finally, when Brittney was 16, her grandmother got legal guardianship. She passionately advocates in both the foster care and runaway/homeless youth community. Back at home, she works for Ozone House, a nonprofit organization for at-risk and homeless youth as an independent contractor through Speak Out—a group that works to end homelessness in Washtenaw County. Brittney spends her free time being a foster youth voice as President of her group Michigan Youth Opportunity Initiative (MYOI) and as a State Co-Director for the Parkwest Foundation, spreading awareness of resources available to those who have been in foster care. Taking her desire to make change within the social system, Brittney is currently pursuing her degree in Social Work at Eastern Michigan University. She plans to pursue a Master’s in Social Work and Public Policy. Her long-term goals include becoming a foster care worker and parent.
Cierra Boughton is a native to Florida. In her free time, she loves going to the gym, reading, and visiting the beach! Cierra is currently in the process of getting her degree in Sociology with a minor in Political Science. She has been nominated for the Silver Garland Award for Music for her efforts and success in helping create a music program for the youth in Orlando, Florida. She is also currently working with a local group called the Homeless Task Force in her county. Cierra strives to make a difference for youth who have went through the same or similar circumstances as Cierra and her younger brother. She is very passionate about helping to end youth homelessness, as well as, helping youth have access to healthcare and education. Cierra’s dream is to be able to use her past and present experiences along with her voice to make a difference for the future youth of our country.
Freeman Carter is a student at Apostolic Bible Institute. He’s studying theology and aspires to be a Pastor of his own church. He partners with the Bridge For Youth and serves on the youth board as a Youth Ambassador where he evaluates programs within Bridge for Youth to help improve them. He recently completed a semester-long long internship working for Congressman Keith Ellison of Minnesota’s 5th District where he studied public policy, housing, the President’s budget plan, federal appropriations, and worked specifically on cases dealing with Human Services. As a formerly homeless youth, he knows even the smallest impact can make the biggest difference in someone’s life who may be in need of a blessing
Keyona Cooper is a native Washingtonian, foster care alumna and child welfare social worker. She is passionate about changing the negative narrative associated with youth who exit the foster care system. Kee earned her BSW from Shaw University and MSW from North Carolina Central University. She is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in D.C. and Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Maryland. She is the founder of Youth Enter Adulthood Ready (Y.E.A.R.), Inc., which equips youth to exit foster care and thrive independently. Kee’s vision is to eliminate the negative outcomes experienced by youth who exit foster care. She is excited to use her lived and professional experiences in child welfare to advocate for system wide change.
Tommy Diaz is a former foster youth who is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture. As a firm believer that there is infinite power in education, he plans to continue his studies to obtain a Master’s degree in architecture and commence to practice within the state of California. Tommy has worked effectively alongside formerly homeless youth, effectively using his own experiences to empower youth to take initiatives in the very programs they are a part of. He is hopeful to engage with and inform as many youth and providers as he can in his venture to positively transform lives.
Aja Ellington is a Missouri native, Indiana resident and proud mother of twins. Having gone through chronic poverty and homelessness at different points in her life, Aja took her experiences and decided to mentor, volunteer, become a youth advocate and assist individuals and youth within her home communities experiencing similar struggles. She graduated from a self-sufficiency teen moms’ program in 2009 where she later became an intern/employee and was able to give back to the very program that served her and her children. In May 2014, Aja obtained an Associate’s degree in Applied Science and Human Services with a credential in Youth Development. Additionally, in May 2018 she graduated honors with a Bachelor’s degree (BSW) in Social Work from Indiana University and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree (MSW) which she will later use to open her very own income-based counseling firm.
Kechiera Marshall Hosier was born into a Caribbean-American family where the culture is still strong. Born and raised in Rochester, NY where she graduated from School of the Arts as a music major and Monroe Community College as a Human service major, education has always been important to her. After graduating high school, she went through the trials of being a young mother learning to navigate the real world at the age of 19. This experience is truly what made her the person she is today because she has gained a broader perspective of life. Today, she knows a lot more now than she knew then and is proud she has achieved a level of stability that allows her to take care of her family. She wants to be voice for all young mothers. She wants all young mothers to know that having a child young isn’t the end of their life, most importantly there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
Clovalea Gage is originally from Kenai, Alaska. They previously served as the volunteer program lead for Mason County Host in Washington, and currently attends the University of Alaska Fairbanks majoring in social work, with a psychology minor and special emphasis on families and schools. Clovalea passion for volunteering in the local communities, and advocating for at risk and unaccompanied youth is what inspired drew them to join the NYAC team.
My name is Rishera Graham I was born and raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where she currently resides with her husband DeVante. Rishera has earned a degree in Business Marketing, Management, and Early Childhood Education. Rishera is a youth coach working at transitional housing for homeless youth.
In June 2019, Rishera established her Life Coaching business, “Worth More Than Rubies” which is designed to help women find their life’s purpose, discover their identity, break mental barriers, and help women create realistic goals through effective time management. She also coaches people who are experiencing homelessness, whether it’s their current situation or past. Rishera is the author of Worth More Than Rubies:31 Day Affirmation Journal and I Beat the Odds – From Homelessness to Dominating Life.
Sharday Hamilton is passionate about working as a youth leader in Chicago and strives to help others hear her story and homeless journey. She is equally passionate about educating other youth and young adults to identify and gain access resources she never had a chance to receive that may be available to them. She enjoys advocacy and is committed to ensuring the voices of other youth and young adults are heard.
Han Johnson resides in Utah and is an activist and advocate. Han is motivated by a desire to change the world. A political science and international relations student at Weber State University, their work is focused on gun and criminal justice reform. Han is the co-founder of March For Our Lives SLC and a member of Generation Progress, a youth advocacy group focusing on criminal justice reform in impoverished areas. Han enjoys writing letters and lobbying with local and federal representatives to bring awareness to the issues critical to their generation, and is committed to amplifying the voices of homeless teens in their community.
Mel Mancheno is a first-year student in the Honors Program at Middlesex College studying psychology. Originally from Florida and raised in New Jersey, Mel’s zigzagging between the two states shaped their perspective politically and socially and has landed them right back to the Garden State at eighteen. A published poet, their writing critically examines themes of gender identity and colonialism, using poetry to untangle the layered intersections of personal and social narratives. Currently, Mel is launching a research project that explores the lived experiences of transgender individuals in faith communities, reflecting their commitment to integrating academic inquiry with meaningful advocacy.
Marcela Molina is a Florida native and college student. She enjoys connecting with peers who share her determination to make a change by helping those who are need and those who don’t have someone there to lend them a hand. Advocacy is important to her because it is way to make a major difference in the lives of many different people across the world. In 2019, she was selected as a Global Citizen Curtis Scholar, where she had the opportunity to travel to South Africa and NYC to enhance her skills and tools to continue growing as a dynamic change-maker for local to global impact.
Fernando IV is a two-time cancer survivor and a proud member of the AYA (Adolescents and Young Adults) and Disability communities. He is a dedicated advocate focused on connecting marginalized individuals with vital services and supportive communities. His mission is deeply personal, stemming from his own challenging experiences as a troubled youth navigating a world with limited resources. A significant turning point in Fernando’s life came when he received crucial support from Disability Services. This experience ignited his passion for advocacy and community building by introducing him to disability history. He is currently being mentored by the legendary photographer and disability advocate Tom Olin, who donated a powerful photo collection that Fernando now uses as an essential educational tool to highlight this important history. Recognizing the alarming rates of isolation and institutionalization, Fernando proactively hosts social meetups to foster connection and a sense of belonging. He also provides essential tools and resources to at-risk and disadvantaged youth, using his advocacy to influence policymakers and service providers. Fernando IV’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and connection, driven by a profound commitment to building a more informed, supportive, and interconnected community
Stephanie Perez has been a tireless advocate and spokesperson for the housing and support needs of young families in Texas. She is a mom to two kids. Growing up in a big family from a small town in Texas, not many resources were made available to her. Through connecting with other moms on social media she found a way to get out of a difficult situation and move to Austin. She has since gone from a shelter to transitional housing to living independently and has been a tireless advocate and spokesperson for the housing and support needs of young families. She believes that her story, along with countless other young people, must be heard and has the potential to change minds and hearts to improve the lives of youth without a home.
Cornealia Powell was born and raised in Kingston Jamaica, and came to America when she was 12. After experiencing homelessness, she was inspired to make a big difference and ensure every young person’s voice is heard. She resides in San Antonio, TX, and is committed to advocating for herself, advocating for others, speaking out for children’s rights and more housing funding for the homeless.
KeAndra Radchenko was born and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. She currently has custody of her sister, is a full-time student, and works full time. Her passion is serving youth in rural communities who, otherwise, wouldn’t have a voice and helping them become stable in order for them to live full, happy lives.
Benjamin Saldana is a Connecticut resident and formerly homeless youth whose understanding that every struggle is a new strength, has projected him forward to working tirelessly to refocus and reengage the youth of his communities. Ben has worked as a Case Manager and Outreach Specialist, centering his focus on homeless youth breaking barriers, and diverting at-risk youth from systems that are not designed to support their personal and unique circumstances. He has established himself as a powerhouse Youth Advocate in his community and is determined to make a significant impact that will last. With aspirations to open his own Transitional Living Program, Ben is eager to continue making valuable connections in the hopes of securing a fundamental, safe, and fair future for the youth of our nation.
My name is Milinda Turner. I’m 22, and I’m from North Dakota. I started working with Youthworks in 2016, and I was doing street outreach and the Youth advisory board. In 2017 I was asked to join the Juvenile justice advisory board. I have made it my mission to speak for those who can’t yet advocate for themselves. When I’m not advocating, I’m working my two jobs and also focusing on my business.
Sasha Vaquera is from Northern California where she is currently a student. She hopes to use her youth homelessness experience to help other youth feel supported and know they are not alone. She is passionate about advocacy, especially for mental health services and services for those with disabilities. She is excited to work with our team encouraging youth and young adult leaders to stand and speak up for youth across this nation when they are unable to stand or speak for themselves.
William Woelki is a Ph.D. student in Human Development and Family Sciences at the University of Delaware. His research focuses on postsecondary education access and housing instability among youth with foster care experience (YFCE). Originally from East Tennessee, William’s lived experience drives his commitment to youth-led policy change and dismantling systemic barriers.
Using participatory action research, he collaborates with YFCE to center their voices in education and housing policy reform. He is a member of the Housing Literacy & Praxis Lab and the National Youth Advisory Council, and leads See You Backpacks, a community initiative supporting people experiencing homelessness.
