YOUNG PEOPLE TO THE FRONT
A research and policy lab based in Los Angeles that specializes in youth homelessness
We are passionate advocates for
Youth driven solutions
Community Partnership
Grassroots organizing
Young People to the Front envisions being a community collaborative that amplifies the voices of Los Angeles to activate radical change. We use research as a tool for storytelling and change, combined with strategic communication to drive action. Previously known as Lens Co, our mission is to create structural change through innovative solutions informed by those with lived experience, driven by data, and rooted in strong community collaboration.
Why are we called “Young People to the Front”?
During the female punk movement of early 90s - Riot Grrrl - Girls to the Front. In male-dominated punk scene where men thrashed violently in the mosh pit, girls attending shows were getting lost, hurt, overlooked, and shoved. Hanna enforced a Girls to the Front policy at her shows, refusing to start playing until all the girls were at the front of the stage.
Young People to the Front reimagines this movement. In Los Angeles, the homelessness crisis and response system is a mosh pit. We are demanding that young people are at the front. Doesn’t ignore what is happening overall but ensures that the most vulnerable don’t get lost, hurt, or overlooked.
Let’s connect
Reach out about a project, collaboration or just to say hello!