Auburn Youth Resources is about to become Nexus Youth and Families.

The name change officially takes place at the organization’s 26th annual Valentines Breakfast on Friday, Feb. 10. The breakfast, the agency’s largest fundraiser, is from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. at Grace Community Church, 1320 Auburn Way S.

The theme is Creating Connections to the Future. The program features an update on the nonprofit organization, guest speakers and a raffle.

The name change comes at a time when the agency faces an increasing need for homeless, mental health and substance use services in the region.

The demand for the agency’s skilled staff is at an all-time high, the agency said, as it continues to serve nearly 20 cities scattered throughout south King and north Pierce counties. For nearly five years, the agency has been researching the best way to unite its work throughout the communities its serves, and collaboratively decided that an agency name change made the most sense to communicate its far-reaching presence in the region.

Nexus means “connection” in Latin.

“We found it difficult to part with the sweet sound of AYR that we have cherished for 43 years but found a name change was one important way in which we could communicate our expanded presence and be better positioned to serve the growing needs of our region,” said board president Greg Dobbs. “In the end, we drilled down to a name that gave us a broad appeal and that resonated with our mission.”

Admission to the breakfast is $25 per person, which covers event expenses and supports programs and services for youth in the community.

Please register by Monday, Feb. 6 at ayr4kids.org.