Sasha Bruce Youthwork

Juneteenth celebrates freedom. June 19, 1865: the day enslaved Black people in Texas learned they were finally free.

But freedom delayed is not the same as freedom achieved.

At Sasha Bruce, we recognize that many Black and Brown youth in our community still face barriers to true liberation:
- Housing instability
- Systemic racism in child welfare and criminal justice systems
- Limited access to resources and opportunity
- Intergenerational trauma

Juneteenth reminds us: freedom is not just about the past, it's about building systems of care, equity, and justice today.

We're committed to serving our community with anti-racist, strength-based, trauma-informed practices that honor the resilience and dignity of Black and Brown youth.

Freedom is a process. We're part of it.

Juneteenth reminds us: freedom is not just about the past; it's about building systems of care, equity, and justice today.

In FY25, we served youth across the full spectrum of gender identity and sexual orientation.

Our programs are specifically designed to be affirming and trauma-informed:
- Training staff on LGBTQ+ inclusion and language
- Creating safe spaces where identity is celebrated, not questioned
- Addressing mental health challenges unique to LGBTQ+ youth
- Providing housing without conditions or judgment

But we know that housing alone isn't enough. LGBTQ+ youth also need:
- Community and belonging
- Access to healthcare and support
- Education and employment opportunities
- Hope for the future

This month and every month, we're committed to serving youth who deserve to live authentically and safely.

Summer is coming and young people in Ward 7 deserve a safe, creative place to thrive.

This summer, the Holmes Richardson Community Center will provide:
- Daily arts programming
- Museum and cultural field trips
- Mentorship and community
- Meals and support

Last year, the Center served 325 residents and prevented youth homelessness through food access, workforce support, and family stability.

But when city funding disappeared, we chose to keep the doors open.

Now we're raising $10,000 to launch summer programming for Clay Terrace and Lincoln Heights youth.

If you want to be part of this, we'd love your support. Right now, longtime supporter Larry Fullerton will match the first two $500 gifts.

Donate Today: https://give.sashabruce.org/holmes-richardson

he DC Council votes on the city budget on Tuesday, June 9

Our CARES program, which keeps young people out of the justice system and gets families real support during crisis is at risk of being cut.

Funded by DHS, CARES works alongside DC Police and the Attorney General’s office to step in the moment a family calls 911. Instead of arrest, youth get respite and access to individual, family, and group counseling. 91% of participants showed a significant improvement over time.

We need you to make one call or send one email before Tuesday. We need just 5 minutes of your time. So, they don’t cut our budget.

Contact your DC Councilmember or Council Chair Phil Mendelson and tell them: fund CARES, keep our youth safe!



Our CARES program, which keeps young people out of the justice system and gets families real support during crisis, is at risk of being cut.

And THAT'S how you kick off Pride Month! 🌈✨

Sunday's Drag Brunch for a Cause was pure magic! Fierce performances, bottomless brunch, and a community coming together to celebrate LGBTQ+ joy.

Big thank you to , Capri Bloomingdale, Kabuki B. Lee, and everyone who showed up with glitter, courage, and love.

Every ticket supports LGBTQ+ youth in our community. Because Pride isn't just about celebration, it's about making sure young people have safe homes, affirming support, and a community that says: You belong here.

The party's just getting started. 🏳️‍🌈

Mental Health Awareness Month may be ending, but the work continues.

At Sasha Bruce Youthwork, mental health support isn't a one-time conversation; it's built into our programs, our culture, and our commitment to youth.

Because healing doesn't happen in a month. It happens over time, with consistency, care, and people who show up.

Thank you for being part of this community.

If you or someone you know needs support:

24/7 Hotline: (202) 547-7777

Taking care of your mental health doesn't have to be complicated.

Sometimes it looks like:
- Taking a walk when everything feels overwhelming
- Talking to someone you trust
- Getting enough sleep (even when it's hard)
- Setting boundaries
- Letting yourself feel what you feel

You don't have to have it all figured out. You just have to keep going.

If you, or someone you know needs support, we're here.

24/7 Hotline: (202) 547-7777

Foster care youth don't need pity. They need preparation, connection, and people who believe in them.

This May, we're sharing what aging out of care actually looks like, and how we can do better.

New blog post: https://www.sashabruce.org/what-turning-18-really-means-inside-foster-care-transition/

Today is International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia.

At Sasha Bruce, we believe every young person deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are.

LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness face unique challenges—but they are also powerful, resilient, and deserving of safe spaces where they can be their full selves.

We provide:
- Affirming, trauma-informed care
- Safe housing for LGBTQ+ youth
- Support without judgment
- Programs like the Resilience Project (cash assistance and coaching for LGBTQ+ and Latino youth)

You belong here. Always.