The Good Life – January-February 2019

LOCAL HERO | YOUTHWORKS
YOUR FRIENDLY
SUPERHERO SOCIAL WORKER
YOUTHWORKS HELPS STRUGGLING TEENS DEFINE THEIR OWN SUCCESS
WRITTEN BY: BEN HANSON • PHOTOS BY: URBAN TOAD MEDIA
Tucked behind towering trees that line South University
Drive near downtown Fargo in a grand 90-year-old home,
a growing nonprofit organization called Youthworks is
helping homeless, runaway, trafficked and struggling teens
and young adults find direction in their lives. The agency
has been providing direct services since 1991 in Fargo,
where they partner with the United Way, as well as several
local, state and federal programs for funding and support.
Leading the way from his cozy third-floor office decorated
with local art, vintage lighting and a round gathering table
set in the middle, Program Director Ethan Hoepfner — not
far removed from his teen years — drives the mission with
unrestrained passion.
“I started at Youthworks when I was just 15 years old
knowing that I wanted to help people,” Hoepfner said with
a conviction in his voice that betrays his young exterior. “I
didn’t want to flip burgers or do dishes. I wanted to help
people.”
At 27, he’s not much older than the young men and women
he’s committed his life to help, and you get the sense that he
sees himself in many of the kids with whom he works.
“My clients changed my life. Every single story of a youth
that sits in that chair,” Hoepfner said, pointing across the
table, “reminds me of how truly lucky I am. I got my degree
from the University of Mary, but my profession was inspired
from my clients.”
30 / THE GOOD LIFE / urbantoadmedia.com