TMP Program Spotlight: Youth Connection

Youth Connection makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers and youth ages 6-18 in Venango, Forest, Clarion and Eastern Crawford Counties. Youth Connection operates under the belief that inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. They develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people, assisting them to reach their highest potential as they grow into more confident and caring individuals in the community.

Mentoring relationships provide increased opportunities for young people to participate in positive social and educational activities and encourage recognition and reinforcement of positive activities, behaviors and attitudes. By providing appropriate mentors and supporting the nurturing relationship, Youth Connection helps children realize long-term economic and social well-being. Their service area has an overwhelming need to provide young people with the consistent support of a trained mentor who can reinforce positive behaviors through guidance and friendship.