Milwaukee Program Supports At-Risk Youth
Why this is here: Williams has over fifteen years of experience creating programs directly informed by the expressed needs of the young people Pathfinders serves.
Pathfinders, a Milwaukee nonprofit, assists young people facing homelessness and trauma. DeShanda Williams and Nikea Ward lead the organization’s efforts to provide housing and support services. Williams develops programs based on direct feedback from youth, focusing on respect and access to resources.
Ward directs supported housing services, helping young adults navigate complex systems and secure long-term stability. Pathfinders’ approach prioritizes building trust and understanding individual needs beyond just providing shelter.
The organization’s work represents a growing trend toward sustainable solutions for youth homelessness. It aims to empower young people to build stable futures for themselves. This is part of Shelterforce’s “Women of Color on the Front Lines” series.