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What We Do

At Youth World Education Project (YWEP), we empower youth ages 12-21 through transformative, evidence-based programs designed to develop leadership, social-emotional skills, and resilience. Our initiatives provide a safe space for youth to build confidence, strengthen peer relationships, and prepare for their futures.

Teen Circle Project (TCP)

The Teen Circle Project (TCP) encompasses our year-round evidence-based programs, youth-led community events, and youth leadership enrichment initiative. TCP is the foundation of our youth development model, using a psycho-educational approach with an experiential learning focus. Participants engage in small peer-led groups, learning essential life skills, positive social behaviors, and leadership strategies through weekly sessions led by certified facilitators.

Our Evidence-Based Year-Round Programs

  • Raise Up (All Male): A structured support group tailored for young men, focusing on leadership, character development, and emotional resilience.
  • R.I.S.E. (All Female): A safe, empowering space for young women to cultivate self-awareness, confidence, and healthy relationships.
  • SOAR (Open to All): A co-ed program that fosters inclusive discussions, peer support, and life-skills development for all youth.

Key Features of TCP

  • 32-week structured sessions per cycle (varies by location).
  • Trained facilitators using evidence-based curricula.
  • Four-phase learning model: Modeling, Coaching, Feedback, Application.
  • Peer-driven support & community-building.
  • 20 hours of community service-learning per cycle.
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The Impact

  • 2000+ youth served.
  • 90% of youth report increased confidence and leadership skills.
  • 100% of all participants increased knowledge of healthy relationships
  • 2000+ youth served.
  • 90% of youth report increased confidence and leadership skills.
  • 100% of all participants increased knowledge of healthy relationships
  • 100% of participants stated they learned to deal with challenges during their CSL projects
  • 100% of all participants increased their social emotional and life skills by at least 50%
  • 100% of participants indicated intent to engage in healthy lifestyle choices
  • 90% of participants indicated an increase in attachment to school
  • 100% of participants indicated favorable attitudes about self and others
  • 100% of participants said CSL helped them make a positive difference in the lives of others
  • 100% were less likely to engage in risky behavior
  • 100% feel more connected to their community after the program compared to when they started
  • 98% progressed to next grade
  • 90% reported a sense of belonging
  • 4 youth-led community events impacting youth and families each year.
  • 95% engaged in problem solving behavior
  • 91.6% moved onto post-secondary opportunities
  • 86% actively engaged in community service opportunities beyond program requirement

Parent Testimonial

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Participant Testimonial

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Leadership Development the YWEP Way

YWEP Youth Ambassadors commit to bi-weekly 2-hour sessions led by YWEP’s Brand Ambassadors, building social, emotional, and life skills while fostering a positive sense of self and connecting with others.

Responsibilities

  • Contribute to program creation, design, and implementation
  • Manage YWEP’s social media
  • Host youth community events and speaking engagements
  • Represent YWEP in outreach events

Eligibility & Training

Applicants must have participated in YWEP for at least a year. Selected ambassadors receive facilitation training to support YWEP’s initiatives. Upon aging out, they are offered a paid internship or employment.

Ambassador Outcomes

  • Participants develop better knowledge and skills for coping with trauma and adversity.
  • Participants gain skills to use in daily life to make informed decisions
  • Participants develop healthy communication skills through leading and providing input into YWEP existing initiatives.
  • Participants gain tools to problem solve in a healthy manner.
  • Participants experience a higher sense of self-worth through community service-learning projects.
  • Participants gain more insight into the inner workings of YWEP
  • Participants explore ways to impact the community and become advocates.
  • Participants will recognize their passions and develop plans with accountability that will lead to reaching their goals, improving relationships and avoiding high risk behaviors.
  • Participants will gain a higher level of understanding what leadership is through hands-on opportunities.