Youth Services is guided by four core values: trust, safety, connection, and compassion. These values reflect who we are and what we expect from each other. Our values are both the boundaries of our space as well as a compass that helps guide us forward as we move toward our mission. 

Trust
  • We know the oppressive history of social services in this country has led to mistrust, especially among marginalized groups and individuals. Therefore we take responsibility to begin the trust-building process. 
  • We strive to demonstrate that we are trustworthy through transparency, clarity, and consistency in our work.    
  • We value the trust of those who give of themselves through time, treasure, and community support. 
Safety
  • We view physical and emotional safety as foundational to our work.
  • We recognize the harm that comes from systems of oppression, and operate under the belief that support should be accessible to all.
  • We differentiate safety and comfort, and recognize that healing often happens in between, when we feel safe enough to tolerate discomfort.
  • We intentionally set boundaries and hold each other and our many stakeholders accountable to them.
Connection
  • We prioritize relationships as the catalyst for individual and community change.
  • We strive to provide a diverse and inclusive space for all races, ethnicities, abilities, genders, sexual identities, religions, classes, bodies, expressions, and experiences.
  • We collaborate with purpose, and value the contributions of all who work together to achieve our mission,  including clients, community members, donors, families, staff, and volunteers. 
Compassion
  • We honor the courage it takes to ask for help, and hold responsibility for responding with kindness, support, and action.
  • We value people in context, and approach people with empathy and curiosity.
  • We provide flexible, accessible care aligned with best practice that helps youth and families achieve their goals.