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
Daviess County
To book a speaker, support, donate, volunteer, or advocate for Youth First in Daviess County, contact Janay Sharp, Regional Development Officer.
Find out more about Youth First Social Workers available in Daviess County
Coping Strategies That are (Almost) Too Cool for School
All Posts, Counties, Youth First BlogBy Holly Walther, MSW, LSW – August 19, 2026 – Many students struggle with self-regulation, the ability to monitor and manage their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and impulses. When a child needs support with self-regulation at school, it can be challenging to identify coping strategies within the structure of a classroom. For example, a student may […]
Helping Children Build Motivation: Small Steps Toward Success
All Posts, Counties, Youth First BlogBy Hannah Boutkan, MSW, LSW – August 13, 2026 – Children are born with an innate desire to learn, grow, and explore the world around them. As they get older, however, environmental, social, mental, and emotional factors can affect that motivation, especially when it comes to school and everyday responsibilities. While adults cannot force a […]
You Can Help Students Feel Safe During Unpredictable Weather
All Posts, Counties, Youth First BlogBy Missy Johnson, MSW, LCSW – August 5, 2026 – Last spring, as a Youth First Mental Health Professional working in several schools, I received several referrals to support students – of all ages – who felt nervous and worried about storms. Weather events like tornadoes, strong winds, and heavy rain can be very scary for […]