YDI in the News
August 25, 2025
Ashley’s Story of Hope
“I was 27, in active addiction with a 5-year-old daughter, and I had just lost everything. I know the desperate feeling of having nowhere to turn. Today, I’m a Family Navigator at YDI, and my past is my purpose. I use my experience to guide families through their darkest times, because I believe no one should have to heal alone. Together, we can find the path to recovery, stability, and hope—all while keeping your family together.”
Making Headlines, Making a Difference
Dream Mural
YDI unveils a new community mural in Albuquerque celebrating hope, resilience, and opportunity. Created with artist Diego Weston and funded by Councilor Klarissa Peña, the artwork reflects YDI’s mission to empower youth and families.
From Head Start to Rocket Nationals
Four former YDI Head Start students from Albuquerque are heading to Virginia for the American Rocketry Challenge National Finals. Their journey from early childhood education to launching rockets proves that a strong foundation launches futures.
Albuquerque’s First Young Adult Housing and Treatment Center Set to Open
Albuquerque’s first shelter for young adults ages 18 to 25 is opening near San Mateo and I-40. YDI will run the Gateway Young Adult Center, providing housing, job training, and life skills for youth experiencing homelessness.
Looking back at decades of growth with Youth Development Inc.’s longest-serving employee
From assistant to the CEO to Vice President of HR, Donna Martinez has witnessed YDI’s transformation over nearly five decades. Read her story and watch the full KOB4 feature.
A Lifetime of Love and Learning: Celebrating Rosie Sánchez
After more than 30 years at YDI Head Start, Rosie Sánchez has retired, leaving a legacy of love and learning across Northern New Mexico. From volunteer to lead teacher, she touched generations of children and families.
YDI’s Fabulous Five: Meet the Women Leading With Purpose
Behind YDI’s lasting impact are five dedicated women who bring decades of experience in early childhood education, behavioral health, workforce development, and operations. Get to know the leaders turning mission into measurable change.
Road to Recovery: How One Albuquerque Woman Turned Her Life Around at Gateway Family
Gabby, an Albuquerque mother, shares her story of overcoming addiction with support from YDI’s Gateway Family program. Now clean for over a year, she is working to reunite her family and build a stable future.
New Name. Same Commitment. Changent Launches for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First
The National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First is now Changent. Both programs continue their mission to ensure every child and family has the resources to thrive.
New Group Home Provides Alternative to CYFD Office Stays
YDI and CYFD have opened HOPE House in Albuquerque, a seven-bedroom group home for girls ages 12 to 17. The home offers a stable, therapeutic environment as an alternative to office stays for youth in state care.