The American Public Human Services Association released a report Addressing the Complex Needs of Youth: A Call to Action in January 2025. This research report highlights critical challenges and opportunities in supporting youth with complex or high-acuity behavioral needs. Developed in collaboration with over 125 human services agencies across 16 states, this report emphasizes the urgent need for systemic reform and offers innovative solutions to better serve vulnerable youth in our communities.
The report explores the significant obstacles faced by agencies and the creative approaches being implemented to overcome them. It provides a comprehensive overview of current services and actionable recommendations to drive change at federal, state, and local levels.
Key findings include:
- Escalating placement challenges
- Inadequate emergency housing
- Workforce and funding shortages
Discover how human services agencies are addressing these pressing issues and how we can collaborate with federal partners to improve outcomes for youth with complex needs and their families.
