Structured Youth Development & Mentoring
The Youth Success Initiative™ is a structured youth development and mentoring initiative for students in grades 6–12. It combines the Six Youth Over Guns Pathways™, the Upstream Experience Model™, mentoring, evaluation, and tangible tools that help young people prepare for school, work, college, and life.
Designed for schools and community partners, the initiative can be delivered through 8–12, 16–20, 24–30, or 36-week programs, as well as school-day, after-school, Saturday Academy, Summer Institute, assembly, and conference formats.
Mission
To strengthen protective factors before crisis by equipping young people with the skills, confidence, relationships, and opportunities needed to thrive.
Why This Initiative Matters
Young people are navigating increasing pressure, disconnection, uncertainty, and limited access to meaningful preparation for life beyond the classroom.
The Youth Success Initiative™ responds before crisis by building protective factors through mentoring, relevant experiences, and practical skill development. Youth gain confidence, strengthen relationships, explore future possibilities, and create tangible tools they can use in school, work, college, and life.
Program Goals
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Strengthen connection, belonging, and positive identity.
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Build leadership, confidence, and decision-making skills.
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Develop emotional wellness and healthy coping strategies.
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Increase financial, career, and college readiness.
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Help youth create tangible plans and tools for their future.
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Prepare young people to lead, contribute, and thrive.