What Lawrence County says about Youth First
“Duke Energy recognizes that investing in our communities is a critical component to building a smarter energy future. Through the Duke Energy Foundation, we provide grants to organizations such as Youth First to ensure that our most vulnerable populations have access to the support they need to thrive.”
“Students entering our buildings today are faced with more circumstances than most can imagine. One of the reciprocal effects of those daunting circumstances is that school personnel wear hats they never expected when they entered the profession; social worker, psychologist, life coach, among others. Youth First has absorbed much of that impact and allows our focus to return, to some degree, to the academic achievement our students seek. Our partnership with Youth First is essential to our students’ success.”
“The partnership between Youth First and our area school systems provides an opportunity to grow each child’s social and emotional well-being through individual counseling, classroom guidance lessons, and small groups. These opportunities allow all children access to mental health services at school which is so very important, not only for their academic success, but for life in general. We are proud to support each of our area’s dedicated Youth First social workers so they, in turn, can support our area youth.”
“I first became aware of Youth First in December of 2019. As I learned more about the dramatic impact in the lives of our students who are being helped by Youth First’s approach to early intervention and the notion that one adult with a caring word and approach can make a difference, I became an advocate for Youth First and a champion to grow their services to Lawrence County, specifically Mitchell Schools.”
“We all know many students come to school carrying burdens like poverty, family substance abuse, grief, depression, and anxiety. These kids are more likely to struggle in and out of school without access to the proper coaching. Building resilience in those children is a wise investment because they are tomorrow’s leaders and workforce.”
“Many of us can’t fathom what our young people face, but the anonymous stories we’re hearing already and the referrals that are being made just during the first few weeks of the school year have the opportunity to be life-changing for our students. We have to be open to making sure our youth and their families retain Youth First’s valuable service.”
“Mitchell Community Schools knew we needed a mental health professional, but we didn’t fully realize how much until she was here working with the students, staff, and community. Our Youth First Mental Health Professional is able to connect our students and families to resources in our community and plays a major part in the success of some of our most struggling students.”
“Whether it is poverty, homelessness, addictions, or mental health issues – having a Youth First Mental Health Professional in our schools to support our young people is invaluable. Youth First is committed to caring for the mental health and welfare of K-12 students in our community – and we proudly support their mission.”
“Youth First is a great fit for our Lawrence County community. The counseling services and programs for students and their families that they provide in our schools are essential for the continued and future success of our students and their families. Hobson Auto Group is pleased to support Youth First.”
