Why Keela Keeping is Sleeping Outside

A decade ago, I worked in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside — a meaningful role with a great organization. But as I met people facing homelessness and addiction, I couldn’t stop wondering: how did they get here?

Through countless interviews, I saw the same story — early trauma, addiction starting young, broken homes, and no consistent adult support. When asked about early support, many shared their belief that a caring adult in their teen years would have made a big difference.

That realization led me to Youth Unlimited — an organization quietly doing the unseen work of prevention. Their staff walk with vulnerable youth before crisis hits, helping them find stability, belonging, and hope — and keeping countless young people from ending up on the streets, in addiction, or in despair.

Prevention doesn’t often make headlines, but it transforms lives. That’s why I joined Youth Unlimited, and why I’m proud to fundraise for this work. These youth matter deeply, and I’ve seen how love and consistency change the story.

Your support doesn’t just help today — it changes a future.