Homelessness Prevention and Building a Better Future: Tai Jones on Systemic Change
In this episode of Young People of the Front, hosts Tonny, Robin and Fatime talk with Tai Jones, an Intensive Supporting Senior Case Manager at The People Concern in SPA 5 and entertainer who has performed on prestigious stages like The Wiltern Theatre and in major studios, including ABC. Dedicated to uplifting young people and addressing homelessness prevention, Tai shares her journey from a childhood immersed in the arts to a career in social services, inspired by her mother’s nonprofit work. She discusses the challenges young people face in navigating social support systems, the need for better assessments and case management, and the systemic changes required to make long-term housing stability a reality. Tai also provides insights into setting professional boundaries in advocacy work, the importance of financial literacy, and how to create spaces where youth feel empowered to seek help. Topics Discussed in the Episode:Tai’s transition from performing arts to youth advocacyThe impact of growing up in Los Angeles has on her work in social servicesBarriers young people face in accessing stable housing and supportThe importance of financial literacy and self-advocacy in maintaining housingHow case managers and social workers can create sustainable change while maintaining personal well-beingConnect with Tai Jones:https://www.instagram.com/youthlednation/More about Tai Jones:Tai Jones is an Intensive Supporting Senior Case Manager at The People Concern in SPA 5, specializing in supporting individuals and families diagnosed with mental health conditions. She provides housing navigation services and housing retention assistance to ensure stable housing for people of all ages throughout Los Angeles County. In addition to her role at The People Concern, Tai serves as a SPA 8 Youth Advocate for Youth Led Nation, an organization dedicated to empowering and supporting young adults facing homelessness in Los Angeles County. Through advocacy, policy reform, and resource navigation, she works to raise awareness, create systemic change, and inform funders and organizations dedicated to serving unhoused youth.Outside of her advocacy and housing support work, Tai is deeply passionate about the performing arts. Born and raised in Inglewood, California, Tai’s love for theater developed during her grade school years. She later expanded her talents to competitive athletics as an all-star cheerleader, competing across California. In 2016, Tai was accepted into the House of Blues Music Forward Foundation's Emerging Artist Program, in partnership with Live Nation, where she began performing on prestigious stages like The Wiltern Theatre and in major studios, including ABC and Fox News.
South Africa