The Hillcrest Youth Center, along with many other social service organizations in San Diego, is always looking for dedicated, passionate volunteers. For more information on volunteer opportunities at the HYC, contact Dana Toppel at (619) 497-2920 ext. 113.

Perhaps you don’t feel comfortable handing money to homeless youth on the street. Why not pass on your daily café mocha and buy a youth a nutritious meal instead? It’s an inexpensive and simple way to show someone you care.

Many local shelters and food agencies have printed cards with resource information on them. Why not pick some up and hand them out to youth you see on the streets? Sometimes a simple gesture can be just enough to show a youth that he or she is not alone.

One of the most hurtful and insulting aspects of being homeless is the feeling of invisibility that comes along with it. The next time you see a homeless youth on the streets, don’t just walk by without a word. Do something!