Youth Development Programs: Closing the Gap

NYFS has been serving youth and families since 1976 and we are keenly aware of the social, economic and academic achievement gap between low-income and marginalized youth and their peers. NYFS has organized its youth-serving programs specifically to close this achievement gap by providing guidance, access and opportunities for youth and their families.

We address and strengthen skills in four core areas critical to long-term success:

Academic Achievement
Employability
Citizenship
Life Skills

By creating purposeful, structured, out of school learning experiences, youth are increasingly ready for academic, economic and relational success. Youth can work on these core skills in a variety of ways through NYFS Youth Development Programs:

Career Development for Youth

Youth who need work experience and career guidance can prepare themselves for the world of work through this innovative program. NYFS’ Employment Coordinator helps youth investigate career options and create educational and lifestyle plans that will lead to enhanced employability.

Diversion Program

Youth who are charged with misdemeanor and status offenses such as theft and alcohol or drug use can use this program as an alternative to the traditional juvenile justice system to rebuild their lives and get back on track. Youth attend educational seminars with their parents, perform community service and pay restitution.

Discovery Initiative

NYFS is helping to build future community leaders through this innovative initiative. Under the guidance of a youth coach, disengaged youth in our community develop personal skills that will lead them to long-term individual success, while learning positive ways they can make an impact on their immediate community.

Summer Camp

Through this program, low-income youth learn critical life and social skills through fun, supervised camp activities held on site at manufactured home communities in our area. It also helps youth retain academic skills so they are better prepared for school in the fall.

STEP

STEP (Service + Tutoring Equals Pride) is designed for middle school youth who are not reaching their full academic potential and may be struggling socially. The program challenges them to stretch themselves academically, pursue leadership and service opportunities, and learn more about planning for college and post-secondary educational opportunities.

Mentoring Plus

Youth with a mental health diagnosis are matched with mentors who work with the youth and their mental health care providers to achieve goals including: better mood regulation, increased social engagement and improved academics.