June 6, 2022
Nonprofit Spotlight: Youth Development Services ★ Supporting Wyoming’s Youth and Families
Since 1980, Youth Development Services (YDS) in Douglas, Wyoming, has been a lifeline for young people and families navigating some of life’s toughest challenges. From providing a safe place to sleep to teaching essential life skills, YDS goes beyond basic care: it gives youth the tools, guidance, and support they need to grow into resilient, capable adults. Across Wyoming, YDS is not just a shelter; it’s a community where young people are empowered to thrive.
Treni Kosters, YDS Business Manager, shared the profound impact the organization has had on Wyoming youth over the decades. “We have housed homeless youth for up to three years who later went into foster care or were adopted. These kids have stayed in contact with us throughout their adult lives,” she explained. “Some of our youth come to our home with no idea of what a clean environment is, and they learn to have family-style meals and take care of chores like laundry, cooking, and yard work. Without this program, they would have been homeless or unsupported due to parents unable to care for them.”
Family reunification remains a central focus at YDS. Staff work closely with families to build trust, strengthen relationships, and support lasting change. “Our Assistant Director keeps in contact with families and youth after they’ve been discharged,” Kosters said. “We provide options for improvement, training, and connect families with other agencies that can help.”
Serving youth from all corners of Wyoming comes with unique challenges, from meeting school requirements to addressing mental health needs. YDS leverages technology to help youth stay connected to providers via Zoom, and coordinates closely with a local pharmacy to ensure prescriptions are filled promptly.
Beyond shelter, YDS emphasizes skill-building in independent living, communication, and problem-solving. Kosters noted, “Our youth often come from backgrounds where their parents lack the skills to teach them to survive and thrive. That’s where our Independent Living program, public health partners, and schools come together to provide unique services.” Daily life at the group home is structured to teach responsibility and life skills, with youth progressing through a six-month level system tailored to their individual needs. Weekly programs focus on employment skills, money management, and preparation for higher education or vocational paths.
“YDS helps Wyoming youth not just survive, but thrive,” said Molly Hughes, Executive Director of the Hughes Charitable Foundation. “They provide crucial stability, guidance, and hope for the next generation.”
YDS welcomes youth aged 10–17, offering crisis beds for those in immediate need, and works tirelessly to reunite families whenever safe and possible. With a holistic approach, YDS not only meets immediate needs but empowers youth with the tools to build healthy, independent, and productive lives.
Today, Youth Development Services continues to be a beacon of hope for Wyoming’s youth and families. Through its group home, crisis shelter, and family-focused programs, YDS not only provides safety and stability, but also teaches young people the skills they need to succeed in life. By fostering independence, resilience, and a sense of belonging, YDS helps youth navigate challenges, rebuild family connections, and step confidently into their futures. Ready to learn more? Visit ydswyoming.org.
