Raised in public housing, Sherilyn Adams was impacted by family violence, mental illness, and substance abuse from an early age. Her experiences drove her passion to end homelessness. Now at Larkin Street Youth Services, Adams is committed to ensuring that youth’s voices are heard and that lawmakers understand the unique needs of youth experiencing homelessness in San Francisco and across the state. The nonprofit offers comprehensive support systems (drop-in services, emergency shelter, transitional housing) and youth leadership development. Larkin Street has served more than 75,000 youth and provides two-thirds of all available housing for youth homeless in San Francisco. More than 80 percent of young people who complete their programs exit to stable housing, and nearly 90 percent were employed or enrolled in higher education.