The Nevada School Foundation Launches Pathway to Hope to Help Young Adults Experiencing Homelessness in Southern Nevada
The Nevada School Foundation Launches Pathway to Hope to Help Young Adults Experiencing Homelessness in Southern Nevada
Where Hope Becomes Opportunity
LAS VEGAS, Nev. — June 27, 2026 — Youth homelessness remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Southern Nevada. For many young adults, the lack of stable housing becomes a barrier to education, employment, health, and long-term independence.
To address this need, The Nevada School Foundation has launched Pathway to Hope, an initiative dedicated to giving young adults the resources, guidance, and support to move from homelessness to self-sufficiency.
More than a housing program, Pathway to Hope provides a comprehensive support system: transitional housing, workforce development, career placement, educational opportunities, life-skills and financial-literacy training, case management, and connections to community resources. The initiative reflects the Foundation's belief that every young person deserves the chance to build a future of hope, stability, and purpose — and to move from crisis to independence.
The Foundation's work was recognized through its selection for funding under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP), a competitive federal initiative supporting innovative, locally driven solutions to youth homelessness. That recognition strengthened the Foundation's ability to expand its vision, though its commitment to vulnerable youth extends beyond any single program or funding source.
Over the past several months, the Foundation has prepared for the launch by developing safe housing, strengthening community partnerships, creating workforce-development opportunities, coordinating referral networks, and building the operational systems needed to deliver high-quality supportive services.
Founded by entrepreneur, educator, and community leader Maria Novello, The Nevada School Foundation is built on the belief that education creates opportunity and opportunity changes lives. Novello has spent nearly two decades helping others gain the skills, confidence, and support to achieve financial independence and lasting success.
"Pathway to Hope represents more than a program — it represents possibility," said Novello, Executive Director of The Nevada School Foundation. "Every young adult deserves someone who believes in them, a safe place to begin again, and the opportunity to discover their full potential. Our mission is to help young people move beyond survival toward lasting success."
The Foundation continues to work with educators, employers, nonprofits, housing providers, community leaders, and local businesses to build a network of support for young adults across Southern Nevada.
"Lasting change happens when communities work together," Novello added. "When we invest in our young people, we invest in stronger families, safer neighborhoods, and a brighter future for everyone."
The Nevada School Foundation welcomes partnerships with organizations, businesses, volunteers, and community members who share its commitment to ending youth homelessness through education, workforce development, housing stability, and compassionate support.
About The Nevada School Foundation
The Nevada School Foundation is a Nevada-based nonprofit committed to transforming lives through education, workforce development, housing stability, and community partnerships. Through innovative programs and supportive services, the Foundation empowers individuals and families to achieve independence, economic mobility, and long-term success.
Media Contact
Maria Novello, Executive Director
Cecilia Reyes, Program Manager
The Nevada School Foundation
Phone: (702) 381-0958
Email: maria@thenevadaschoolfoundation.org
Website: www.thenevadaschoolfoundation.org
