Many people struggle to imagine what it would be like to lose a home, much less what it would be like to be a teenager out in the world alone.

How would you know where to seek help and who would be safe to turn to?

"Rabbit" is one of thousands of youths across Illinois who doesn’t have to imagine what homelessness is like -- he's lived it. After growing up in an abusive home, "Rabbit" became homeless at 17 when his mom kicked him out of the house.

While living on the street, "Rabbit" suffered sexual abuse and experienced a severe panic attack. Still, he succeeded in graduating from Marshall High School in 2004.

"Rabbit" is now an active member of the HELLO Youth Group. He has traveled several times to Springfield to tell his story to state legislators, fighting for policy changes that will help other homeless youths like him. In fall 2008, he became a member of the CCH Speakers Bureau.

Today, "Rabbit" is stably housed in a nursing home. He is looking forward to attending college, and hopes to major in dance or visual arts.

Across Illinois, thousands of youths share his struggles. A 2005 study conducted by the University of Illinois at Chicago found that there were roughly 25,000 Illinois youths who experienced homelessness. Approximately one-third of youths surveyed said that family conflict was the reason they became homeless. Other common reasons included physical or sexual abuse by a parent or family member. Three in five youths said they had been the victim of violence during the past 12 months.

A 2007 CCH study showed that housing and supportive services succeeded in helping youths overcome homelessness. 87% of youths who exited homeless youth programs in fiscal year 2007 moved into safe, stable housing. But programs were forced to turn away 52% of the youths (3,088 youths total) who sought their help, due overwhelmingly to lack of space.

To address the needs of youths experiencing homelessness, in 1983 CCH founded the Youth Committee. Made up of representatives from 33 organizations serving youth, the Youth Committee meets monthly to coordinate CCH’s public policy work on homeless youth issues.