Youth

Results to Measure:

• Increased readiness to achieve in school

• Increased high school graduation rate

• Increased academic achievement

• Increased participation in pro-social and volunteerism

• Decreased alcohol, tobacco and drug use

Our Partner Programs are working toward acheiving one or more of the results listed above:

• Big Brothers Big Sisters
  A county-wide mentoring program addressing unique risk factors affecting many youth with inadequate adult support and guidance. With the help of adult volunteer mentors, youth develop positive self-esteem, complete their education, avoid pregnancy and set goals for their futures. BBBS also offers after-school mentoring.

• Girl Scouts of California's Central Coast
  Girl Scouting offers the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. This model engages girls in discovering themselves, connecting with others and taking action to make the world a better place. Program delivery is through trained adult volunteers leading groups of girls ages 5-17.

• Santa Cruz Community Counseling Center (Headstart, Pajaritos, Youth Services)
  Headstart is a comprehensive child development and family support program serving low-income children ages birth to five, and their families. Pajaritos is an after school program for 6-18 year old Latino youth living in the Pajaro Valley that provides information and guidance to help steer youth away from dangerous and unhealthy choices. Youth Services provides services to assist youth 12-20 and their families in finding positive solutions to the challenges that arise in adolescence including substance abuse, conflict with parents, and physical, sexual or emotional abuse.

• Volunteer Centers of Santa Cruz County (YouthSERVE)
  YouthSERVE works to empower and support young people in getting involved in the community, participating in service projects, taking leadership, and voicing their opinions.
  

• Walnut Avenue Women's Center
  Provides high quality subsidized childcare for children 0 to 5 years old to low income families that are impacted by teen pregnancy, domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, poverty, literacy and language barriers and other cultural needs and
  concerns.
  

• Watsonville Family YMCA
  Building strong kids, families and communities through programs designed to develop a healthy spirit, mind and body.
  
  YWCA Watsonville
  Offers an after school program called YW-Teens which supports youth as they learn to make wise and safe decisions, they also offer childcare programs that enable kids to explore the sciences and arts as well as focusing on literacy skills, counting and creativity.

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