In this issue: Celebration of Youth raises more than $500,000 for program; Pat Holterman-Hommes named to “St. Louis Magazine’s” 2026 St. Louis Business 500; Youth In Need celebrates National Safe Place Week; and Cara Merritt receives Michael Garanzini Award.
Celebration of Youth Raises More Than $500,000 for Programs
What an unforgettable evening we had earlier this month at our 39th annual Celebration of Youth gala! We extend an enormous thanks to everyone who joined us to help raise more than $500,000 for the children, youth and families we serve.
Together, we celebrated our honorees, Bruce Sowatsky and ATB Technologies, for their efforts to build stronger and more hopeful communities for children and families.
We also heard an inspiring story from Montez Thomas, also known as DJ Bounce—a community leader in our area who first found peace, confidence and identity in music during his time with Youth In Need as a young person.
It’s because of the children, youth and families in our area that our community thrives, and it’s because of you that they find safety, hope and success in life. We couldn’t be more grateful for your support. ❤️
Visit the link below to see photos from the event or to download your red carpet photo!
Pat Holterman-Hommes Named in the 2026 St. Louis Business 500 by “St. Louis Magazine”
Congratulations to Pat Holterman-Hommes, our President and CEO, on being named in “St. Louis Magazine’s” 2026 St. Louis Business 500!
Each year, the St. Louis Business 500 list recognizes some of the most influential, impactful and innovative local leaders in our city. This year, Pat is being recognized not only for her incredible leadership, but also for her devotion to strengthening the presence and accessibility of our services in the region.
“We are focusing on how to serve children, youth and families with cultural competence and humility, and working to dismantle and transform systems so that thriving is not only possible but probable.”
Youth In Need Joins National Safe Place Network in Recognizing National Safe Place Week
Last week we celebrated National Safe Place Week, and Youth In Need is proud to continue to serve the young people of eastern Missouri. Safe Place has provided teens in crisis with immediate help and safety for more than 40 years. Youth In Need has operated its Safe Place program since 2006, making this our 20th year celebrating National Safe Place Week as the regional provider!
We extend a huge thanks to everyone who makes up the hundreds of Safe Place locations in our community—your presence bridges the gap for youth in crisis to find safety when they need it most.
In recognizing National Safe Place Week, we hope you are encouraged to listen to the young people in your life, see their actions and do something to ensure vulnerable youth are safe.
If you find yourself experiencing abuse, homelessness, bullying, trafficking or crisis of any kind, access help at your nearest Safe Place site or text “SAFE” to 44357 to find a Safe Place near you.
Cara Merritt, Senior Director of Counseling, Receives Michael Garanzini Award
We are proud to celebrate Cara Merritt, Youth In Need’s Senior Director of Counseling, on receiving the Michael Garanzini Award from the St. Louis University Medical Family Therapy Program and Department of Family and Community Medicine
This award honors a person who provides the highest quality services in our community and has a mission to serve others with commitment and dignity. This award also commemorates the act of inspiring and advocating for students in the program to advance their clinical training to help serve diverse populations.
Congratulations, Cara! Your supervision and mentorship to students in their professional development makes a wonderful difference in the lives of many.
