Young Powersports, in partnership with the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation, has spearheaded an initiative to provide vital support for homeless teenagers across several Utah communities. On 8th October, volunteers gathered at Young Powersports XL in Centerville to assemble 400 backpacks filled with essential items for teenagers experiencing homelessness.
The event, named Power Up Against Teen Homelessness, saw a strong turnout from the local community, with notable attendees including Centerville Mayor Clark Wilkinson, and athletes, cheerleaders, and coaches from Weber State University. The event began with an introduction and a presentation highlighting the growing needs of vulnerable teens in the region, emphasising the importance of providing practical support and a sense of stability for these young individuals.
Jeramie Young, director of Young Powersports, expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of community support: “It was incredible to see so many people come together for this cause. We’re proud to stand alongside education foundations and other philanthropic organisations in the fight against teen homelessness, and we’re grateful for the chance to help those in need.”
The assembly process was a collaborative effort, with volunteers forming production lines to fill the backpacks with a range of essentials, including warm clothing like sweatshirts, gloves, socks, and beanies. In addition, hygiene products, blankets, and other necessities were packed to ensure these teenagers would have the basic comforts they need.
These backpacks will be distributed to drop-in centres across Utah, which provide homeless students with access to critical services such as showers, laundry machines, computers, food, and support staff. The initiative aims to equip vulnerable teens with tools for both their physical well-being and mental support.
Tami Olsen, director of Young Caring for Our Young, described the importance of the partnership: “As a foundation, we are committed to supporting the most vulnerable children in our community. Working with Young Powersports on this initiative is something we are passionate about. We’re building an army of people who care deeply about making a difference.”
This year’s event coincides with the Young Automotive Group’s 100th anniversary, marking a century since the company’s founding by Seldon “Jack” Olsen in 1924. From its humble beginnings as a small service shop, Young Automotive Group has expanded into over 30 franchises spanning Utah, Idaho, and Montana.
Young Powersports joined the group in 2015 and has grown rapidly since, with eight locations, including the largest dealership in Utah, Young Powersports XL Centerville. The company has made philanthropy a central part of its mission, with the Power Up initiative running for the last four years. The annual backpack drive, which began in 2023, is a key part of these efforts, and both organisations plan to continue the event in the future.
Reflecting on the impact of the initiative, Jeramie Young added: “It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day, but events like this help us put things into perspective. It’s great to work for a company that is so dedicated to giving back and providing opportunities to make a difference.”
With backpacks now ready for distribution, hundreds of homeless teens across Utah will soon receive the essential supplies they need as they navigate difficult times.