At a check presentation on July 16th, Youth First, Inc. was awarded a $5,000 grant from the Vanderburgh Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation Alliance, Inc., through its Community Good Grants Program. The grant will fund Youth First social workers in Vanderburgh County schools to help address the social and emotional needs of young people by building caring relationships, fostering a readiness for positive change, boosting resiliency and teaching valuable life skills to help prevent substance abuse and other risky behaviors. These specialized mentors offer free-of-charge support to students, parents, families, and teachers. 

“It’s clear to see how Youth First is making an impact with kids and helping them feel safe. We want Vanderburgh County to be a great place to raise kids and call home, and Youth First helps our community accomplish that. The impact is growing and we are excited to be a part of it,” stated Sean Ferguson, President of the Vanderburgh Community Foundation Advisory Board. 

“Our children are growing up in a complex and challenging world that puts them at greater risk for substance use, suicide, violence and harmful behaviors,” said Parri O. Black, President & CEO of Youth First, Inc. “The Vanderburgh Community Foundation’s investment is critical to achieving Youth First’s mission. Working together, we can protect and heal the hearts of more young people and their families. As with all donations received in the 10 counties we serve, this award stays in the home area of the donation to support children in that county’s schools.” 

About Youth First, Inc.:
Youth First’s mission is to strengthen youth and families through evidence-based programs that prevent substance abuse, promote healthy behaviors, and maximize student success. Youth First partners with 74 schools across 10 counties to provide 54 Master’s level social workers who assess needs, develop and implement prevention plans, and connect students and their families to community resources. Youth First also offers afterschool programs involving parents and caregivers to strengthen families. For more information about Youth First, please visit www.youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336. 

About the Vanderburgh Community Foundation:
The Vanderburgh Community Foundation is one of nine county affiliate foundations of the Community Foundation Alliance, Inc. It serves as a charitable resource devoted to its local community and seeks to help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Vanderburgh County today and for generations to come.