CSTE Commitment to Service

Starting during the 2022 CSTE Annual Conference, each year, CSTE’s staff-led Commitment to Service Committee have identified a local organization or cause to support in the conference host city. As we gather in Grand Rapids, Michigan for the 2025 CSTE Annual Conference, CSTE has chosen to support the AYA Youth Collective.

AYA Youth Collective is an organization providing circles of support for youth facing homelessness. Housing insecurity is complex, and we have worked for years to address its many dimensions. As an organization, we have created more connective, cohesive experiences for young people on their journey toward housing and stability.

AYA stands for As You Are and is a commitment that every youth will find resources and authentic relationships, As You Are. Building relationships, identifying valuable resources, and finding safety come from being accepted and celebrated as you are.

The Youth Collective portion of our name highlights how we center youth voices in our mission. We work with youth, and community partners, to break cycles of homelessness. It takes a collective effort, and we want you to be a part of the Youth Collective too!