Building Capacity to End Youth Homelessness
Addressing youth homelessness requires more than good intentions. It requires strong organizations, supported leaders, and a shared commitment to learning and growth.
That belief is at the heart of a new Capacity Building Institute launched this February in partnership with One80 Place and The Weathers Group. Thanks to the generosity of a private donor, this Institute creates space for nonprofit leaders across the Lowcountry to step away from daily demands and invest in strengthening the systems, leadership, and internal alignment that make long-term impact possible.
At 1000 Feathers, we often say that sustainable change doesn’t happen because of a single program or initiative. It happens when organizations build the internal clarity, trust, and capacity to lead through complexity.
“This Institute isn’t about checking a box or completing a training,” said Forrest Alton, President of 1000 Feathers. “It’s about equipping leaders to navigate complexity together. When organizations strengthen their leadership and communication internally, the entire system becomes more responsive and more resilient. That’s where real change begins.”
Designed specifically for nonprofits serving young people experiencing homelessness, the Institute will focus on:
Developing leadership at multiple levels
Strengthening internal communication and alignment
Navigating complex partnerships and system coordination
Building the capacity to adapt and grow over time
The first cohort includes Charleston County Public Library, Young Moms Together, One80 Place, and The Formation Project — representing different parts of the youth homelessness continuum. Each organization is participating as a team: a current leader, an emerging leader, and a board member. Because lasting change happens when leadership is strengthened at every level.
“I’m excited to be part of the first cohort of the Capacity Building Institute,” said Shameka Conyers, Emerging Leader at One80 Place. “This opportunity will help me grow professionally, build on my current skills, and collaborate with others who are passionate about improving systems and partnerships. By working collaboratively and aligning how we serve young people, we can make it easier for them to access housing, build stability, and work toward long-term success.”
At least two additional cohorts are planned over the next 18 months.
For us, this work reflects something we believe deeply: if we want better outcomes for young people, we must invest in the organizations and leaders walking alongside them every day.
And sometimes the most transformative work isn’t visible in a headline — it’s happening inside the rooms where leaders are learning, aligning, and building stronger systems together.
