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Wow!

students.

50,000+

programs & services access to…

Partner Schools giving

117

Social Workers on staff

Youth First

87

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Youth First Social Worker

student lives

were touched by a

20,567

Last school year,

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Youth First’s mission is to strengthen youth and families by providing evidence-based programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success.

Our mission is to strengthen youth and families through evidence-based programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success.

Our mission is to strengthen youth and families through evidence-based programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success.

Stories of Change

See how your generosity transforms lives

Youth First partners with schools churches businesses communities local agencies to provide
a menu of proven programs and strategies.

News

By Jordyn Bryant, MSW, LSW, Youth First, Inc. Having stress or anxiety as a child can be hard. Children often hear, “You are too young to have stress” or other statements that dismiss their feelings. Recognizing that children can have negative emotions regarding what seems “small” or “trivial” to adults can help validate the child’s […]

By Ashley Underwood, MSW, LCSW, Youth First, Inc. Many of us are all too familiar with stress and anxiety, along with all the baggage it brings. Have you ever sat down and thought about how much of what you are worrying about is within your control? Are you stressing over things that you cannot change? […]

By Jenna Kruse-Pauli, MSW, LCSW, Youth First, Inc. As parents and caregivers, our first instinct is always to protect our children. Unfortunately, one thing that we can never protect them from is loss. We can, however, support them and have positive discussions with them to help them cope with grief. November is Children’s Grief Awareness […]

By Brooklyn Wells, MSW, Youth First, Inc. The importance of regular school attendance cannot be overstated. Each school day is an opportunity for growth, and consistent attendance ensures your child does not fall behind. When students skip school, they miss valuable opportunities to acquire knowledge, develop essential skills, and build a strong foundation for their […]

By Niki Walls, MSW, LSW, Youth First, Inc. With so much uncertainty the past few years, many young people have not been in the habit of sticking to a normal daily routine. Research proves that routines support early childhood emotional development. Familiar patterns and activities can provide comfort to children during uncertain times. Children with […]

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What Youth First supporters say

“I feel it is vitally important to have availability and access to Youth First Social Workers in all the schools and in as many youth programs as possible. It literally saved my daughter’s life and provided me with a sounding board and a helping hand during the rough patches when I didn’t know where to turn.”

“You make my heart feel good.”

“Today, our youth face so many more pressures. Add to that the rise in poverty, drugs, pressure to grow up too quickly, social media, family issues, and it should come as no surprise that many children need help. They need that trusted third party with whom they can converse, vent, and ask advice. They need Youth First.”

“Mrs. C., when I talk to you I feel brave.”

“Over the last twenty years, Youth First has taken a firm stance in our community on behalf of young people. They have demonstrated significant leadership in helping to improve many of the serious substance abuse issues in our city and region, all while enhancing our most important assets…young people and strong families. I believe we should all invest in their future through Youth First.”

“Mrs. A., if people can be safe places, you’re my safe place.”

“Vectren believes in Youth First’s mission because its progress should result in a healthier and safer community by addressing some of the most costly problems such as drug abuse and graduation rates. Their very successful focus on students’ success in school should also contribute to a higher quality workforce. We believe our contribution advances a very strong partnership between Youth First and the local schools.”

“Youth First’s multifaceted programming comprehensively addresses both youth and their families – among the most important targets for the Welborn Baptist Foundation. Through their school-based social workers and other prevention and early intervention resources, Youth First is tackling risk factors like substance abuse and family conflicts, using evidence-based programming models and a deep understanding of our community.”

“My child’s Youth First Social Worker Tiffany Harper was like a second mother/best friend to her. She was able to tell her things she was afraid to tell me, because she didn’t want me to worry. Ms. Harper contacted me when things got very bad and I was able to get my daughter the intensive treatment she needed at that time. If Ms. Harper hadn’t been there, I can’t imagine what would have happened. I don’t want to imagine. I’m so thankful for Youth First Social Workers!”

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How You Can Support Local Youth

Be a part of our life-changing work by donating, volunteering, or sponsoring an event!

A generous donor wants to ensure our future is bright with a matching gift opportunity. If we raise $100,000 each year for the next 10 years, it will be matched by this donor!