FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Roughly 50 community members, from a wide range of groups, gathered Tuesday afternoon in downtown Fort Wayne, to talk about the issue of youth homelessness in the Summit City.

The gathering was part of a Parkview Community Health Improvement initiative called EXPLORE. The program allows individuals from all areas of Fort Wayne, the opportunity to understand the root causes of community health issues. This year’s efforts will focus on teenagers and young adults who are currently homeless.

“EXPLORE brings together voices from throughout the region to discuss, critically assess and work collaboratively to help find solutions to the needs we’re working to address,” said Sue Ehinger, Chief Experience Officer, Parkview Health. “Together, we have the power to change the face of our community and work to address the social issues that until today have been too complex to tackle.”

Tuesday's gathering was the second EXPLORE community event. Participants heard from Pastor, Donovan Coley, CEO of The Rescue Mission as well as Jessica Crozier, Homeless Liaison Coordinator for Fort Wayne Community Schools. Local individuals who have experienced homelessness were also there to share testimonials.