OUR VISION AT
YES AMERICA

OUR VISION

Youth Education Services of America (YES America) in the community focus on supporting the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical well-being of young people.

They vision strives for widespread participation, ensuring no young person is left out, especially those from underserved communities.

YES, America aspires to a future where participation in civic engagement and working for the common good is not just an option, but the expected norm for all young people in America.

We believe that youth, communities, and our democracy thrive when we all work together for the common good and creating a future where all youth in America are empowered to actively participate in shaping their communities and democracy through service-learning and civic engagement.

OUR MISSION

Youth Education Services of America’s mission is to create a space where youth of all levels can explore their passions through our programs and make a positive impact in their families and communities.

Empowered and equip young people with the skills and knowledge to be effective agents of change. Also, empower youth:

    • Actively participate: YES, America emphasizes youth participation in service-learning and civic activities, going beyond awareness to taking action. 

    • Shaping communities and democracy: YES, America's focus is on youth contributing to the betterment of their communities and strengthening democratic values. 

    • Service-learning and civic engagement: These are core components of YES America's programs, fostering a sense of social responsibility and active citizenship. 

    • Improve academic skills and knowledge: Providing tutoring, enrichment programs, and access to educational resources can help young people succeed in school. 

    • Close achievement gaps: Programs can target students who are struggling academically, ensuring all youth have the opportunity to reach their full potential. 

    • Prepare for future education and careers: Youth education services can equip young people with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in college, vocational training, or the workforce. 

    • Develop life skills: Programs can teach young people essential life skills like communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, decision-making, and financial literacy. 

    • Promote social-emotional learning (SEL): This involves fostering emotional intelligence, self-awareness, self-management, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. 

    • Cultivate healthy habits: Programs can promote healthy eating, physical activity, and mental well-being. 

    • Build self-esteem and confidence: Positive reinforcement and opportunities for success can help young people develop a strong sense of self-worth. 

    • Develop civic engagement skills: Youth education services can encourage participation in community events, volunteerism, and advocacy efforts. 

    • Promote understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion: Programs can foster appreciation for different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. 

    • Reduce social isolation: By providing safe spaces and social activities, youth education services can help young people connect with peers and mentors. 

    • Prepare youth to be responsible and contributing members of society: These programs equip young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to be active participants in a democracy. 

    • Tailored services: Effective youth education programs consider the specific needs and interests of the young people they serve. 

    • Collaboration: Partnerships between schools, community organizations, and families can create a comprehensive network of support for youth. 

    • Focus on prevention: Many programs aim to prevent problems like academic failure, drug abuse, or delinquency by providing positive alternatives and support systems. 

By focusing on these diverse objectives, youth education services can play a crucial role in shaping the lives of young people. They can equip them with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to thrive in school, career, and life, and become well-rounded, contributing members of their communities. 

OUR VALUES

The core values of Youth Education Services of America’s organization focus on the Learner; Learning and Growth; Positive Environment and Relationships; Social Responsibility and Community; Honesty and Integrity; and passionate for youth advancement. 

    • Student-Centered: Placing the needs, interests, and potential of each young person at the center of educational services. 

    • Holistic Development: Nurturing the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical well-being of young people. 

    • Equity and Access: Ensuring all youth, regardless of background or ability, have access to high-quality educational opportunities. 

    • Love of Learning: Instilling a passion for learning and exploration in young minds. 

    • Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Equipping young people with the skills to think critically, analyze information, and solve problems effectively. 

    • Innovation and Creativity: Fostering creativity, innovation, and a growth mindset in young people. 

    • Safety and Support: Creating a safe and supportive environment where young people feel respected, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. 

    • Positive Relationships: Cultivating positive and trusting relationships between educators, youth, and families. 

    • Diversity and Inclusion: Embracing diversity, fostering inclusion, and celebrating the unique strengths and perspectives of all young people. 

    • Civic Engagement: Encouraging young people to become active and responsible citizens who contribute positively to their communities. 

    • Social Justice: Promoting social justice and advocating for policies that ensure all young people have equal opportunities to thrive. 

    • Lifelong Learning: Encouraging a lifelong love of learning and a commitment to personal and professional growth. 

    • Cultural Competency: Understanding and appreciating diverse cultures and backgrounds. 

    • Environmental Stewardship: Educating young people about environmental issues and promoting sustainability practices. 

    • Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy: Equipping young people with the skills needed to be financially responsible and potentially become entrepreneurs. 

    • Technology Integration: Leveraging technology effectively to enhance learning and promote digital literacy. 

    • Building Trust: Young people and their families need to trust that the information they receive about programs, services, and outcomes is accurate and truthful. 

    • Ethical Practices: Honest and ethical practices ensure that programs are designed and delivered effectively, focusing on the best interests of the young people being served. 

    • Transparency and Accountability: Transparency in finances and program design allows for accountability and ensures resources are used efficiently and ethically. 

    • Empowering Young People: By fostering an environment of honesty and integrity, young people learn valuable life lessons about truthfulness, ethical decision-making, and responsible behavior. 

    • Clear Communication: Programs should clearly communicate their mission, goals, methods, and expected outcomes to all people. 

    • Accurate Information: All promotional materials, data reporting, and financial statements should be accurate and truthful. 

    • Qualified Staff: Hiring qualified and experienced staff with strong ethical values is essential for delivering effective and honest services. 

    • Evaluation and Feedback: Regular program evaluations and incorporating feedback from participants and families helps ensure continuous improvement and transparency. 

    • Volunteer or Work with Youth Education Services: Numerous organizations and people work with Youth Education Services of America’s organization in various capacities and helping youth, from after-school programs, and mentorship initiatives. Find one that aligns with your interests and skills. 

    • Become a Teacher or Youth Worker: If you have the qualifications, consider a career path directly impacting young people's education and development. Explore teaching, youth counseling, or social work. 

    • Become a Coach or Mentor: Share your knowledge and experience by coaching and leading a youth group or mentoring a young person one-on-one. 

    • Raise Awareness about Youth Issues: Contact Youth Education Services of America and bring our attention to challenges faced by young people, such as access to education, mental health resources, suicide prevention and/or youth social justice issues. 

    • Support Youth-Focused Policies: Educate yourself about policies that impact young people and advocate for initiatives that promote their well-being and opportunities. 

    • Volunteer for Advocacy Organizations that support youth: Support youth organizations fighting for educational equity, mental health resources, or youth leadership opportunities. 

    • Connect with Experts in Youth Development: Network with educators, youth workers, and researchers to gain insights and learn best practices in youth advancement. 

By upholding these core values, youth education services of America organizations can create a foundation for providing high-quality, impactful programs that empower young people to reach their full potential and become thriving members of society