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Alison Hurst is the founder of Safe Place for Youth (S.P.Y.), a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering and supporting homeless and at-risk youth ages 12 to 25. What began in 2011 as a grassroots effort—distributing food, clothing, and basic necessities from a car with a small group of volunteers—grew under her leadership into one of Southern California’s leading youth homelessness organizations.

As Executive Director, Alison guided S.P.Y.’s transformation into a comprehensive continuum of care, providing housing, case management, mental health services, education and employment support, and other wraparound programs designed to help young people achieve long-term stability and independence. During her tenure, the organization established an independent Drop-In Center and expanded transitional housing initiatives, including programs such as Roots to Grow and The Meadow on Melrose.

After nearly a decade of leadership, Alison stepped down as Executive Director, leaving behind a lasting legacy of innovation, compassion, and advocacy for vulnerable youth. Her vision helped create a model of care that continues to transform lives and address youth homelessness across Los Angeles.