How We Work
Youth are matched with a caring adult volunteer who is trained to focus on positive reinforcement, trust-building, goals setting and commitment, by engaging youth in one-on-one outing and group adventures in the community. Youth and mentors agree to meet for one hour per week for a full year.
NUFY's programs are designed to enrich the lives of at risk children in Clark County. The intent is to help youth develop life skills, social skills, a sense of responsibility to themselves and their environment, positive work ethics, commitment to education and self respect.
Team NUFY is the central program of the organization. It provides middle and high school student an opportunity to participate in a four day retreat with their mentors. The retreat includes outdoor activities and exercises to build trust, as well as indoor workshops addressing goal setting and creating "life plans" to empower youth to break habits that lead to destructive behavior in school and in life. The retreat is followed by a structured seven month program that includes monthly team building and group activities. The program culminates with a graduation ceremony, but the mentor and youth remain together for the following five months.
Step It Up! works with and engages youth already in the juvenile justice system. The mentoring relationship is utilized to establish a program of change in the young person's life. Mentors encourage goal setting, self-discipline, and skill development that improves the youth's sense of hopefulness. The mentor and mentee work one-on-one for one year, and are offered opportunities to participate in group and individual outings when appropriate.
Brown Bag Buddies work with elementary school age children. Adult mentors visit the children in school either during the child's lunch period, or after school in the after school child care program, to share either lunch or a snack. Buddies work with their youth for the duration of the school year.
Volunteer mentors are key to NUFY. It is important that our volunteers receive support and recognition for their investment of time and energy. NUFY will provide training for the mentors' success with their mentees. An annual "Mentor Appreciation Celebration" will honor all mentors for their involvement.
