May 2026 SPY Report

 
 

Hi Friend, 

Spring at SPY has been nothing short of inspiring with youth moving into permanent housing, a surprise celebrity visit, and volunteer and staff events! And with our 15-year anniversary gala just around the corner, the best is still yet to come. Read below to learn more about SPY’s latest celebrations!


only 2 weeks left to secure your spot! celebrate 15 Years of SPY at Our Evening of Inspiration

 
 

On May 30th, SPY marks 15 years of changing lives, and we want you to be there with us at our Evening of Inspiration Gala, our biggest event of the year! 

Join us at a stunning private home in Beverly Hills for an inspiring evening of moving youth performances, Michelin-starred bites, and a reflection on the impact we’ve made together. We’ll honor our incredible awardees: Timothy P. Whalen and Snap Inc., the Snap Foundation & the Spiegel Family Fund, and YOU – the people who have helped thousands of young people find their way home.

Space is limited for this special celebration. 

Secure your place today. Your contributions ensure SPY can continue to serve unhoused young people with meals, employment and mental health services, and most importantly, housing.

 

A Pathway Home: April

 

7 SPY youth exited to permanent housing in April! We’re so proud of our members and staff for these amazing successes.

Congratulations to SPY member Anthony for moving into his new apartment!

Anthony was very motivated and proactive throughout his housing search. Once he got accepted into a unit, SPY referred him to a permanent housing program where he would receive monthly rental assistance while working toward financial independence. We can’t wait to see Anthony thrive as he steps into this new chapter!

Welcome home, Anthony!

 
 

Lucy Dacus Surprises SPY Volunteers!

 
 

Last month, SPY partnered with The Ally Coalition, a nonprofit that works with musical artists and their fans to advocate for LGBTQ+ youth rights. The Ally Coalition invited fans of singer songwriter, Lucy Dacus, to volunteer at SPY’s Community Garden for Earth Day, and they had no idea Lucy was there to surprise them! 

After touring our Drop-In Center and learning about SPY’s programs, Lucy helped her fans volunteer at the Community Garden by picking flowers for bouquets, tidying up the garden, harvesting fennel, and preparing a farm-to-table meal for the Drop-In Center. We’re thrilled to have hosted such a special fan experience that directly supports food equity, nutrition education, and sustainability efforts for unhoused youth in LA. 

Thank you to The Ally Coalition, Lucy, and her fans for a wonderful Earth Day event!

 

All Staff Retreat & Community Appreciation Recap

 
 

Last month, SPY hosted an All Staff Retreat and Community Appreciation Event, celebrating everyone who dedicates their hard work, time, and energy to SPY’s youth. 

At the wellness retreat, staff gathered at our Community Garden to uplift each other, share success stories, and participate in team building activities. To recognize Volunteer Appreciation Month, we hosted an evening at The Waterfront in Venice with food, drink, and a short ceremony honoring our incredible community partners. These wonderful events highlighted the impact of community collaboration, and supported the people who run SPY’s programs.

Whether you’re a staff member or volunteer, SPY would not be what it is without you. Thank you to everyone who shows up for SPY and our young people! 💙


Lise Pixler