We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their NorthStar!
OUR VISIONAll young people facing homelessness or exiting state systems have the support and resources they need to create a life that is healthy, loving, and achieves their NorthStar.
Strengthening Systems
NorthStar Advocates is a pioneering nonprofit in the realm of social change. What sets NorthStar apart is its dynamic collective—a fusion of individuals who have navigated the challenges of behavioral health challenges and homelessness firsthand, seasoned professionals, and independent contractors with a proven track record of impactful results, all united by a shared vision. Rather than merely addressing symptoms, NorthStar Advocates endeavors to redefine the practices and culture surrounding homelessness. Through a strategic blend of advocacy, innovation, and collaboration, the organization not only seeks to dismantle outdated structures but also to fortify and construct new systems that are rooted in the philosophy of NorthStar— Unconditional Care.
PUBLIC POLICY & ADVOCACY
Providing education and advocacy to support public policy and services that are culturally relevant, prioritizes equity, and strengthens young people, families and local communities.
CAPACITY BUILDING
Increasing the resources, expertise, and services across the state of Washington that strengthen young people, families and communities to prevent and end youth and young adult homelessness.
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
We have a targeted focus on and advocate to improve the continuum of behavioral health services (mental health, substance use disorder and/or co-occurring disorders) available to children, youth, young adults, and families to prevent and end homelessness.
GENERATION NEXT
Building capacity includes supporting young professionals, especially BIPOC and those who identify as LGBTQ2S+ to receive the support, training, and compensation to ensure representation at all levels of human service organizations and systems of care.
A Word
From Our Founder
Jim Theofelis began his lifetime commitment to serving young people and families as an outreach worker on the streets of Seattle in 1979. For the next several years he worked on the “front lines” continuing to do street outreach and working in an emergency shelter that served youth surviving on the streets of Seattle that began his commitment to the philosophy of Unconditional Care: “All children and youth deserve a safe, nurturing environment to grow and thrive independent of behavior.”
HPDF Report
Homeless prevention & Diversion Fund annual report
Between May 2023 to May 2024 the HPDF served:
611 young people served for less than $2,700.00 one-time support with over 90% stably housed one year later.
To view the quick facts and one pager please CLICK HERE
Calendar:
Stay Up-To Date On Coalition Meetings & Events
Explore our calendar for easy access to all NorthStar Advocates’ key meetings, including The Bridge Coalition and Youth & Legislative Advocacy initiatives. Click on the provided Zoom links to stay connected and get involved
Bridge Coalition Meeting
4th Tuesday of every month from:
1:00-2:30 PM PST
Event Info + Meeting Link
The Bridge Coalition is a collaborative initiative aimed at preventing the discharge of youth and young adults from behavioral health inpatient facilities into homelessness. It focuses on enhancing cross-system involvement through trainings and statewide agency spotlights to ensure comprehensive support for vulnerable individuals. Click Here To Enter Meeting
Steering Committee
3rd Tuesday of every month from:
1:00-2:00 PM PST
Event Info + Meeting Link
Youth Advisory
To Be Determined
Time & Date coming soon.
Event Info + Meeting Link
Bridge Coalition Trainings
Discover The Bridge Coalition Trainings – insightful sessions led by individuals with lived experience, professionals, and organizations. These trainings focus on enhancing shared knowledge about crucial topics to support youth and young adults transitioning from behavioral health inpatient programs. The goal is to create a safe and stable environment, preventing homelessness and fostering a brighter future. Join us in building understanding and resilience through these impactful sessions.
Facing Fentanyl
A NorthStar Advocates training created for services providers to help address the fentanyl crisis in WA State. The training was presented to the Bridge Coalition, a meeting run by NorthStar Advocates.
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Kids Mental Health Washington
On 8-22- 2023 Kids Mental Health Washington conducted a training for the Bridge Coalition.
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Integrated Manage Care
Scott Swan a representative from Molina provides an overview regarding Washington States Integrated Manage Care for the Bridge Coalition Meeting on 10-24-2023 to The Bridge Coalition.
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HCA - System of Care
The Health Care Authority presents on System of Care at The Bridge Coalition Meeting on 03-28-2023.
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Return To Community
Jim Theofelis covers the purpose and scope for The Bridge Coalition and describes NorthStar Advocates concept of Return To Community.
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Our Philosophy
UNCONDITIONAL CARE: All children and young people deserve a safe, warm, nurturing environment to grow, learn, and thrive. Children and young people do best when they are raised by healthy families and communities. Families and communities do best when they are trusted, supported, and free of bias and discrimination. Society does best when young people, families and communities have the resources, policies, and opportunities they need to be strong, healthy, and lead their own lives. We want young people and families to not just thrive, but to survive!
Articles & Updates
Explore The NorthStar Advocates Blog for real stories from people with lived experience, agency highlights, and important updates from NorthStar Advocates.
2025 Annual Report- NorthStar Advocates
To view our 2025 Annual Report please CLICK HERE
Jim Theofelis Speaks at SHB 1929 Bridge Housing Launch | NorthStar Advocates Executive Director
Jim Theofelis, Executive Director of NorthStar Advocates, delivers an inspiring speech at the Friends of Youth Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, celebrating the official launch of the SHB 1929 Bridge Housing programs—operated by Friends of Youth in Kirkland and Excelsior...
11/25/2025 Bridge Coalition Meeting Notes
Meeting Notes: Bridge Coalition Meeting on November 25th Opening Comments (Jim): A broad overview of NorthStar Advocates Mission and purpose was discussed, Focusing on return to community: safe housing, relationships, and supporting young adults facing unaccompanied...