Youth Action Board: Making a Difference.

The Youth Action Board (YAB) is a youth-led group for 18–24-year-olds in Santa Barbara County. We help young people moving into adulthood, especially those at risk of or experiencing homelessness, in partnership with the Youth Homelessness Demonstration Project (YHDP).

Led by people with lived experience, YAB offers peer support, builds independent living skills, and runs projects that remove barriers to stable, permanent housing. We focus on each person’s needs and goals.

In a safe, inclusive space, YAB connects members to community partners and services like housing options, case management, career help, and mental health or substance-use support.

If you are interested in joining and making a difference

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or keep scrolling to see those currently making a difference with us.

Become a member
Become a member

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MEET A YAB MEMBER⬇

Meet a YAB Member

  • “At the age of 15, I found myself homeless and alone. It was a difficult experience not having a stable home or income. However, I did not let that stop me. Instead, I joined the Youth Action Board (YAB), which allows me to give back to my community by providing valuable advice to local leaders on issues regarding youth homelessness.”

    Celina Aquino

    Current Member

  • “The most beneficial aspect of the program was gaining an in-depth understanding of the myriad resources available within Santa Barbara County. Particularly transformative was the inclusion in a collaborative group that champions youth participation and empowerment in county-wide efforts. This exposure was invaluable in both understanding the landscape of services and in fostering a supportive network.”

    Jessica Castillo-Tapia

    Current Member

  • “ YAB has done more than create spaces for youth to learn about but also engage in the conversations and even developments that go behind some of these programs, grant proposals, housing developments and more and for that I can not be thankful enough.”

    Jay Joseph

    Past Member

  • “I am most hopeful for more table talks and speaking with those who are experiencing homelessness more. In terms of what I hope YAB and other associates can accomplish in this time is to continue building a budget for youth housing development programs that house youth and offer resources and supplies that are much needed.”

    Diego Morales

    Past Member

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