Mission, Vision & Values

Learn about Youth First

Youth First exists to transform and strengthen the lives of young people and their families. We are the only organization that provides Youth First Mental Health Professionals in area schools and prevention programs for youth and families. On-site, free of charge behavioral health services and programs prevent substance abuse, improve family relationships and develop life skills.

Proof of our results can be witnessed through independent evaluations with measurable outcomes and by testimonials from those who have been touched by our programs. Those who engage with us will benefit by being part of a better, stronger, healthier community in which to live, work and raise a family.

Founded in 1998, Youth First, Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization based in Evansville, Indiana, and serves Indiana youth and families. Youth First is governed by a Board of Directors and funded by charitable donations, grants, and fees for services.

Youth First exists to transform and strengthen the lives of young people and their families. We are the only organization that provides Masters level mental health professionals in area schools and prevention programs for youth and families. On-site, free of charge behavioral health services and programs prevent substance abuse, improve family relationships and develop life skills.

Proof of our results can be witnessed through independent evaluations with measurable outcomes and by testimonials from those who have been touched by our programs. Those who engage with us will benefit by being part of a better, stronger, healthier community in which to live, work and raise a family.

Founded in 1998, Youth First, Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization based in Evansville, Indiana, and serves Indiana youth and families. Youth First is governed by a Board of Directors and funded by charitable donations, grants, and fees for services.

Our Mission

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

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 Vision

Youth First’s vision is communities supporting healthy, safe and successful youth and families.

Our Vision

Youth First’s vision is communities supporting healthy, safe and successful youth and families.

Our Values

  • Compassion

    We care about people. Show genuine concern, always. Empathize with others’ perspectives and situations and act on our desire to improve their well-being. Be kind and compassionate with ourselves as well.

  • Accountability

    We care about excellence. Aim for the highest standards of professionalism, evidence-based practices, and fiscal responsibility. Find solutions, overcome obstacles and deliver exceptional results every time.

  • Relationships

    We care about connecting. Cultivate authentic relationships and champion partnership. Intentionally focus on working together to advance our mission and deepen our impact.

  • Empowerment

    We care about strong futures. Invest in the whole person. Equip young people, caring adults, and our own team with the transformative skills, strengths, and confidence needed to make better decisions, become resilient, and achieve success.

Our Values

  • Compassion

    We care about people. Show genuine concern, always. Empathize with others’ perspectives and situations and act on our desire to improve their well-being. Be kind and compassionate with ourselves as well.

  • Accountability

    We care about excellence. Aim for the highest standards of professionalism, evidence-based practices, and fiscal responsibility. Find solutions, overcome obstacles and deliver exceptional results every time.

  • Relationships

    We care about connecting. Cultivate authentic relationships and champion partnership. Intentionally focus on working together to advance our mission and deepen our impact.

  • Empowerment

    We care about strong futures. Invest in the whole person. Equip young people, caring adults, and our own team with the transformative skills, strengths, and confidence needed to make better decisions, become resilient, and achieve success.

Our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement

Youth First believes that a conscious commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice is essential to fulfilling our mission to strengthen youth and families. In keeping with our core values of CARE: Compassion, Accountability, Relationships, and Empowerment, Youth First continues to listen to, learn from, and embrace the differences of people and perspectives in the communities we serve.