2020-YOU-Annual-Report - Flipbook - Page 2
DEAR FRIENDS,
We are living through times like no other. Amidst these
challenges, I have never been more proud of the work of
Y.O.U. as we pivoted to serve youth and families continuously
throughout the pandemic. Y.O.U. was uniquely positioned to
respond to this crisis based on our deep understanding of youth
needs, collaborative partner relationships, and solid financial
footing. We continued our comprehensive focus on academic,
social, and emotional needs through enhanced academic
support, connections while apart, and increased mental
health support.
In just the period of March through June 2019, the number of
youth and families served through our case management and
counseling services grew 365% from the prior eight months.
Y.O.U. clinicians are supporting more youth than ever, and our
Out-of-School-Time Programs went virtual with staff providing
engaging, enriching, and experiential programming in new
formats.
Y.O.U. has deepened our work as an organization and board
to ensure that we fully understand and address the effects of
systemic racism. We are examining our programs and policies
FROM Y.O.U.’S N E W C E O
Thank you for your generous and enthusiastic
support of Y.O.U. and the warm welcome I have
received since joining the organization. Like
many organizations, Y.O.U. was forced to adapt
our traditional programming to best serve youth
and families while our schools shut down due to
the pandemic.
The year has certainly brought its challenges
including a pandemic that continues to
disproportionately affect underserved
communities. In the face of that challenge, our
response has been guided by agility, resilience,
and creativity. I am proud of the ways in which
Y.O.U. and our community have responded to
meet our youth’s emerging needs.
I look forward to partnering with you to deliver
even more high impact support and services to
our youth and families.
with an anti-racist and equity lens, to enhance positive youth
outcomes.
In July, Y.O.U. welcomed Craig Lynch as Chief Executive
Officer. Everyone was excited to work with this seasoned
professional who has spent his career in education and social
Craig Lynch
Chief Executive Officer
services. With Craig in place, the organization continues
its historical leadership in the youth development field while
adapting to best meet the needs of youth and families during
these challenging times. Y.O.U. will continue to lean into our
partnerships, respond to new and expanding needs, view
youth holistically, and seek excellence in our support of postsecondary and life success for youth.
Letitia Mann
President, Board of Directors
1,615
Youth and young adults served by
Y.O.U. last year in our community.
