Youth participatory action research centers the voices of young people with lived experiences in the research process. It is an essential component of the Independent Living Survey which focuses on understanding and addressing unhoused youth and vulnerable populations' needs across Tompkins County. The Independent Living Survey has been conducted every four to five years since 2003. The 2024 iteration was expanded to explore precursors to homelessness, COVID-19 impacts, and mental health among youth experiencing housing insecurity. Members of ACT for Youth (including undergraduate research assistants); community stakeholders, from organizations like The Learning Web; and young people who have experienced homelessness collaborated on survey design, data collection, data interpretation, and presentations of findings. The combined effort creates a better understanding and shared information regarding issues such as housing, food security, employment, education, involvement in public systems, safety, strengths, and goals for the future. During this talk, members of the collaborative research team will share about the survey process, outcomes, and implications for the community. Panelists: Amanda Purington Drake '04, M.P.S. '09, Ph.D. '22; ACT for Youth Vicki Baum; ACT for Youth Brian Maley: ACT for Youth Youth Researchers; The Learning Web This HSC Forum is co-sponsored by the Tompkins County Homeless & Housing Task Force. HSC Forums are free and open to the public. Pre-registration is requested. This event is in-person only. Masks are optional at in-person events