After 43 years of growth, Enumclaw Youth and Family Services is renewing its commitment to local youth and families with a new name and brand – Nexus Youth and Families. The new brand was officially unveiled Feb. 10 in Auburn.

The organization, a parent of Auburn-based nonprofit, Auburn Youth Resources, provides services to young people including mental health counseling, homeless and emergency shelter, street outreach and substance use disorder, prevention and treatment. Nexus Youth and Families serves youth in 17 communities around greater South King County.

“Our new name reflects how much we’ve grown in size and services,” said Greg Dobbs, Nexus Youth and Families board president. “Nexus is Latin for ‘connection,’ which describes our commitment to helping youth where they are and building healthier futures regardless of traditional boundaries.”

The organization began in 1973 as a group of concerned parents, educators and civic leaders to address drug use among South King County youth. Nexus Youth and Families now has 90 employees and a $7 million annual budget.

Through the naming and branding work, Nexus Youth and Families refined its mission statement to focus on restoring hope, building futures and strengthening communities through youth programs.

Dobbs appreciates Nexus Youth and Families’ partners and the community for their longtime support.

“Our partnerships will continue to be important as we address the growing challenges of families’ financial pressures, unemployment among young adults and barriers faced by vulnerable populations,” he said.