Youth Assisting Youth’s powerful youth-to-youth model offers a range of programs, activities and supports that help young people access well-being, education and success.
At the heart of our model are volunteer youth mentors supporting the next generation through one-to-one peer mentoring relationships in their local community. YAY provides every match and young person with integrated support, inclusive activities and targeted resources that build confidence, resilience, belonging and leadership.
From peer mentorship, tutoring and counseling to empowerment programs, community-based group activities and in-depth mentor training, every part of the model works together to deepen the impact of each relationship.
1:1 Peer Mentorship
Community-based. Youth mentors meet with their mentee weekly to guide, support and empower them. They both grow in profound ways.
1:1 Tutoring
Virtual Delivery. 1:1 virtual tutoring for a full semester, including mentorship. Group tutoring delivered in-person to provide connections.
1:1 Counseling
Home-based. Brief 1:1 counseling delivered in a safe space to address urgent needs. MH Self-care training also gives youth tools to maintain mental health.
Group Programs
Girls Empowerment
School and Community-based. Gender-exclusive Girls Empowerment workshops where girls build skills, form connections and become leaders.
Boys Empowerment
School and Community-based. Gender-exclusive Boys Empowerment workshops where boys build skills, form connections and become leaders.
Group Mentoring
Community-based. Inclusive group spaces and activities that help youth connect with each other, the community and develop a sense of belonging.
Mentor Training
In-depth training in Mentoring 101, Youth Mental Health and Youth Learning Disabilities to prepare youth mentors to build strong, supportive relationships.
Ongoing Support
Ongoing mentor monitoring and support, with 24/7 emergency assistance to ensure all mentors feel guided, supported and prepared throughout the relationship.
Resources & Opportunities
Skills-building training, scholarship opportunities and meaningful connections help youth mentors grow as leaders while addressing their own future goals and success.
You can make a difference.
Help youth volunteers mentor the next generation, with supports that help them both access well-being, education and success.
Your donation empowers 2 young people to lead and succeed
Help shape the future.
