Since 1976, we’ve transformed the lives of over 30,000 youth through the power of relationships, connections and support.
Mentor. Grow. Succeed.
Youth Assisting Youth
Youth Assisting Youth develops the leaders of tomorrow through peer mentorship, integrated support, and the power of youth volunteerism. For nearly 50 years, we have matched volunteer youth mentors ages 16 to 29 with youth ages 6 to 15 across Toronto and York Region, creating life-changing relationships and a bold dual impact that helps both access education, well-being and success.
Mission Statement
To create life-changing mentoring relationships that develop the leaders of tomorrow. We are passionate about cultivating supportive, transparent and enriching youth mentoring opportunities.
Vision Statement
To be the leading voice in Canada for the power of youth as peer mentors, role models and resilience builders for communities, families, children and youth.
Our Programs
1:1 Programs
- One-to-One Peer Mentoring Program
Youth volunteers mentor underserved youth in the community - Core Program
One-to-One Tutoring Program
Youth volunteer tutors support student learning and development
- One-to-One Brief Counseling
Short-term therapy for mentors, mentees and parents
Group Programs
Girls Empowerment Program
Safe, gender-exclusive group space for girls (self-identified) to build awareness, connections, confidence and leadership
Boys Empowerment Program
Safe, gender-exclusive group space for boys (self-identified) to build awareness, connections, confidence and leadershipGroup Mentoring Program
Inclusive community-based activities and experiences that build connection, belonging and skills
Support & Resources
- Mentor 101 Training
- Youth Mental Health Training
- Youth Learning Disabilities Training
- Ongoing Mentor Support
- 24/7 Emergency Support
- Skills-Building Opportunities
- Scholarship Opportunities
Peer mentoring leads to a more transformative experience than adult mentoring
We help kids with complex issues and learning disabilities when other programs won’t
Mentors offer tailored support to help kids with a mental health diagnosis
We conduct in-home assessments for every mentor and mentee
We offer extensive Youth Mental Health and Learning Disabilities training for volunteers
We provide 24/7 Emergency Support for all mentors, mentees and families
Our average mentoring match lasts for five years
Peer mentoring leads to a more transformative experience than adult mentoring
Why Peer Mentorship Matters
When you’re young in today’s world, the relationships around you are critical to building confidence, accessing education and shaping a successful future. Supportive peer relationships can provide the guidance, encouragement and connection young people need to grow and succeed, while helping them engage with the world around them beyond screens and isolation.
Youth Assisting Youth is a Toronto-based nonprofit built on the power of youth-to-youth mentoring, youth volunteerism and integrated support. We empower volunteer youth mentors to support the next generation as role models, leaders and trusted guides while helping both young people access the relationships, support, opportunities and real-world experiences that lead to education, well-being and success.
Proven Model & Impact
YAY’s proven youth-to-youth model creates lasting impact through peer mentorship, youth volunteerism and integrated support. When young people have strong relationships, meaningful support and relevant resources, they build confidence, resilience and skills that lead to education, well-being and success.
For nearly 50 years, YAY has helped transform the lives of more than 30,000 youth across Toronto through the power of relationships, support and connection. The benefits reach far beyond one match, creating a bold dual impact that helps both young people grow, succeed and lead while strengthening the communities around them.
YAY recruits and connects driven youth volunteer mentors with youth in their local community and empowers them both to become leaders. Our program is evidence-based and built to strengthen each relationship through ongoing support, resources and experiences that help create lasting impact.
Your Support Creates Positive Change
Our Impact and Outcomes
Where your support goes
