Giving Compass' Take:

• Lele Exum describes how she became an advocate fighting to end youth homelessness - particularly LGBTQ youth homelessness- in Minnesota.

• How does youth homelessness relate to other social problems including criminal justice? What work can be done to reduce youth homelessness in your state? 

• Read the state index on youth homelessness to learn what work is left to do in your state. 

Born and raised in Shakopee, MN, I know firsthand the unique challenges and struggles that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth in Minnesota face and I hope that by sharing the experiences I have faced, I can raise awareness to the public on the shared responsibility we must all take in ending youth homelessness.

After I got sober the last time, my now wife, son, and I were struggling to find housing and get a good education. Luckily we had the opportunity to get housing and I graduated with my high school diploma at age 21 and have made it through my first year of college with a 4.0.

It was not easy to get where we are today. Our family structure had a lot to do with keeping us from getting housing. My wife and I were not married when she was pregnant with our son. Because we were same-sex, shelters did not recognize us as a family unit. We could not get into shelters together, so it was hard trying to get housed. All people and all family structures should be able to get equal access to safe supportive housing. I just want to make sure other LGBTQ youth and young families can get the support and resources they need.

Currently, 40% of youth experiencing homelessness are LGBTQ. Additionally, LGBTQ youth have a 120% increased risk of experiencing homelessness compared to youth who identify as heterosexual and cisgender. I am determined to open new doors and opportunities for other LGBTQ youth and all youth experiencing homelessness.

Read the full article about advocating to end youth homelessness by Lele Exum at True Colors Fund.