ORANGE CO. – Hoosier Uplands Economic Development Corporation recently presented a $16,000 donation to Youth First, Inc.
This is the third significant donation Hoosier Uplands has made to Youth First since 2019. With this support, Youth First is able to continue its mission to strengthen students and their families in Orange County.
Youth First brings family programs to communities and partners with schools to embed Master’s level social workers in the building, where they are an essential part of the school community, serving as mentors for students and prevention coaches for parents and teachers. This service is available to any student enrolled at one of 95 partner schools across 12 Indiana counties in the coming school year. Youth First Social Workers build caring relationships with students, foster readiness for positive change, and boost resiliency to face life’s challenges.
Research shows that building these protective factors in young people reduces risk factors and is essential to preventing addiction, violence, suicide, and similar tragic outcomes. Over 10 years of Youth First data demonstrate that this prevention model benefits the whole community, empowering the next generation with the social and emotional skills they need to succeed.
David Miller, Chief Executive Officer of Hoosier Uplands Economic Development Corporation, is pleased to support this work in Orange County.
“COVID-19 has put extraordinary pressures on kids in our community. Because of the work, Youth First is doing in our Orange County Schools, young folks have the opportunity to learn skills that will improve their self-confidence, self-control, personal responsibility, time management, positive decision-making, and more. Hoosier Uplands Economic Development Corporation is honored to support Youth First and their mission to strengthen youth and families.”
“Youth First understands the risks our young people face and has the ability to give students coping tools to succeed. I am thankful for the support of Hoosier Uplands and their investment in Orange County youth and families. Working together with the community, we can protect and heal the hearts of more young people and their families in Orange County,” stated Becky Jessmer, Youth First Regional Development Officer.
To learn more about Youth First services and programs or to make a donation, visit youthfirstinc.org.
