Problem

Today’s teens face a multitude of hurdles on the way to adulthood. Many young people lack the social and emotional competencies vital to navigating the tough issues encountered daily. These issues are magnified in underserved communities and with at-risk youth: high school dropout rates approaching 50%; high rates of crime and gang-related activity; teen pregnancy; high unemployment rates and lack of opportunity; these ingredients all add up to failure: teens tuning out and dropping off.

The Gift

Your gift will allow on student to enroll for one year in the Youth Leadership Academy (YLA), an innovative, Internet-based, multi-media curriculum that teaches life skills to teens in a language and manner that thoroughly engages them. YLA provides employment and life skills, opening the door to new options and opportunities. YLA gives adolescents the training and tools they need to address the social and emotional stresses of modern life, to counter the obstacles in their lives, and prepares them with the practical skills to become productive, self-fulfilled and achievement-oriented adults and community leaders.