Our Mission
Our mission is to strengthen youth and families through evidence-based programs that prevent substance abuse, promote healthy behaviors, and maximize student success.
Youth First exists to strengthen and transform the lives of young people and their families. Youth First Social Workers provide specialized mentoring and caring support to students in partnering schools, readily available to assess and address students, family and school needs. Youth First prevention programs give kids the readiness, resiliency, and relationship skills needed to face life’s challenges.
Youth First in
Pike County
To book a speaker, support, donate, volunteer, or advocate for Youth First in Pike County, contact Janay Sharp, Regional Development Officer.
Find out more about Youth First Social Workers available in Pike County
When to Seek Professional Help for your Teen
Counties, Youth First BlogBy Deena Bodine, LCSW – July 28, 2021 – Parenting is no easy task. The teen years are notorious for challenging parents. While these years are a time of growth and a move towards independence for teens, parents may struggle to find a balance between encouraging independence and hovering too much. Distinguishing normal teenage behavior […]
Creating Positive Self-Worth in Your Child
Counties, Youth First BlogAbby Betz, LSW – July 21, 2021 – As a school social worker, I have worked with students of all ages in both public and private schools. I have found, unfortunately, that the majority of students are unable to verbalize what they like about themselves. Most students lack the ability to talk about positive conditions […]
Is Your Child Ready for Kindergarten?
Counties, Youth First BlogAshley Underwood, LCSW – July 13, 2021 – As the mother of a child who will start kindergarten this fall, there’s been a nagging question in the back of my mind: “Is he ready?” Beginning kindergarten is typically the start of formal education for most children, which can be an extreme transition from life at […]