Support from a Variety grant helped turn YSS's vision for the Ember Recovery Campus into reality. Opened in January 2025, the trauma-informed campus near Cambridge provides residential treatment, crisis stabilization, and emergency shelter for youth and young adults across Iowa.
We are deeply grateful to Variety for their continued belief in this work. Their support has helped create a place where young people can find safety, healing, and real hope for what comes next.
Andrew Allen, President & CEO of YSS
For one young woman, Ember became the first place in months where she truly felt safe. After experiencing juvenile detention and emergency shelter, she arrived guarded but quickly found comfort through the welcoming staff and peaceful environment. Now she's focused on her education and building a future that's different from the past.
You guys have really, really good staff. They make sure you feel safe. This is like my last opportunity... I'm really lucky to be here and have another chance. I'm not gonna waste that.
Ember Recovery Campus Participant
Grace also found a fresh start at Ember. Determined to overcome addiction and leave behind negative influences, she says the program gave her the support and confidence to move forward.
Coming here has given me the skills to be successful. I came here and learned how to trust... now I feel confident.
Grace - Ember Recovery Campus Participant
Today, Grace is focused on staying sober, graduating from high school, attending college, and building a successful future.
Because of Variety's support, Ember Recovery Campus is more than a treatment facility - it's a place where young people find safety, healing, and the confidence to build brighter futures.
