Project 16:49 empowers Rock County’s unaccompanied homeless youth to take action to achieve their goals
About Us
Why is it called Project 16:49?
The 16 hours and 49 minutes between school ending one day and beginning the next is a lonely, frightening and dangerous time for our unaccompanied homeless youth — those who cannot live or live safely with a parent or legal guardian.
Most “couch surf” – staying with extended family or friends, often moving weekly or even daily. Others sleep in cars, abandoned buildings and parks. Most have little or no support system. All are vulnerable.
Project 16:49 was established to serve the unique needs and diverse challenges of Rock County’s unaccompanied homeless youth.
We offer safety, hope and life-changing opportunities and support that allow our youth to complete their high school education (if needed), increase their self-sufficiency, and develop key life skills as they prepare for independent living.
View Our ImpactAbout the youth we serve
61%
have been physically or sexually abused
~40%
of females have been trafficked
14%
Have Been Abandoned By Adults
29%
Have been in Foster Care
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower Rock County’s unaccompanied homeless youth to take action to achieve their goals.
Our Core Values
After reading Brene’ Brown’s book “Dare to Lead,” our staff identified a set of shared core values that define how we interact with each other, the youth we serve, our service partners, and the community.
- Wholeheartedness: ‘Leading with our whole heart’
- Collaboration: ‘Fostering a spirit of collaboration in all we do’
- Accountability: ‘Being accountable to each other, the youth we serve, and our community’
What We Do
Project 16:49 operates two housing programs and offers a range of supportive services to meet the individual needs of youth experiencing homelessness. All assistance is free.
Learn more about our services:
