David’s Story

Growth that reaches beyond one person

David first connected with Youthworks at age 17, when he came to the emergency shelter. In the years that followed, he experienced homelessness and accessed housing related support, counseling, anger management, and continued connection as he worked to build stability in his life

A letter from David

On Christmas Day 2025, 10 years after he first came to Youthworks, David wrote to Executive Director Mark Heinert to share how he is doing.

Dear Mark,

I hope you have been doing well. I have been meaning to reach out for some time, as I wanted to share an update and express my gratitude.

I am doing very well both academically and personally. I currently hold a 4.0 GPA, but more importantly, I have made meaningful progress in areas that truly matter to me. I have devoted a significant amount of time to working on anger management and self reflection, both within and outside the classroom. Through intentional reflection and applying what I have learned, I feel more grounded, accountable, and confident in how I handle challenges.

As I have continued to grow, I often think back to Youthworks and the staff who supported me during such a formative time in my life. I genuinely miss everyone there. The balance of firm expectations, nurturing guidance, and strong advocacy made a lasting difference for me. Every person I met had a significant impact on my life, and you were no exception. Your kindness, leadership, and belief in me mean more than I could fully express at the time.

Because of that impact, I also wanted to share something meaningful with you. I recently wrote a motivational speech inspired by the lessons I learned through Youthworks and my own journey. I hope it might resonate with, or be useful for, the youth you continue to support.

Warm regards,
David

David’s Impact

During and after his time in services, David showed up for others, contributing to his community and to systems designed to support young people.

Advocating for leadership in higher education

David worked with his case worker to advocate with his college so young people who had experienced homelessness could report their status through a case manager, rather than having to tell their story themselves. This helped improve access to campus supports and financial assistance for youth experiencing homelessness.

Speaking directly to policymakers

David testified before the 2019 North Dakota Legislature, sharing his experience and advocating for funding to support youth experiencing homelessness.

Contributing to systems change

Following advocacy efforts, state funding for homelessness increased from $250,000 to $1.5 million for the biennium.

Elevating youth perspectives publicly

David spoke on panels and in community spaces about the needs of youth experiencing homelessness.

Sustaining academic and personal discipline

David maintained strong academic performance while continuing to work on the personal goals that matter to him.

Writing to reach other young adults

David wrote a motivational speech for young adults focused on responsibility, resilience, and growth.

Sharing his message

David’s writing and reflections have been shared through social media, reaching other young adults facing similar challenges.

David’s message to other young adults

David’s motivational speech reflects on responsibility, resilience, and growth. It offers encouragement rooted in his own experience and in the support he received along the way.

Read David's motivational speech

Dave’s speech

Bismarck

Fargo

Minot

Eastern ND/west central MN

Western/Central ND