Fostering Change Podcast Episode 110 | Jessica Jasurda

On this episode of Fostering Change we talk with Jessica Jasurda!

Jess is the Director of Crisis Services at the National Runaway Safeline. In this role, she oversees the day-to-day operations of the Crisis Services Center and its associated data collection and reporting systems. She supervises all members of the crisis services team to ensure consistent and effective delivery of services offered to youth who have run away, are experiencing homelessness, and/or are in crisis, and their families. Each year, the National Runaway Safeline makes more than 125,000 connections to help and hope through hotline, online and offline services. Prior to joining the National Runaway Safeline, Jess served as the District Homeless Liaison for the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  November was National Runaway Prevention Month, a public awareness campaign designed to shine a light on the experiences of runaway and homeless youth that too often remain invisible. It is also an opportunity to spotlight the resources available to support youth in crisis throughout the nation. As part of the campaign, individuals, organizations and the National Runaway Safeline host educational and awareness-building events, such as the NRPM Lunch & Learn Series, throughout the month. For more information and to join the effort, visit 1800RUNAWAY.org.

We discuss, how extensive is the runaway and homeless youth crisis in our country? What are some factors that put a young person at risk of experiencing homelessness? Do you feel there may be specific reasons youth in the foster care system would reach out to the National Runaway Safeline for support? What are some of the top issues driving youth to contact your Crisis Services Center? How can we help prevent youth from running away from home or becoming homeless (living on the streets, staying in shelters, couch surfing, sleeping in cars, etc.)?