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Driving catalytic change in the lives of K-12th grade students through positive youth development programs.
Youth Equipped to Succeed is a 501(c)(3) education nonprofit founded in 2002 by Dan Bailey, who currently serves as CEO. In 2019, the organization formally merged with Aim for Success, another dynamic nonprofit that provided powerful research-based wellness education programs since 1993. Together, we have impacted over 4.8 million students, parents, and educators in 43 states through our resourced experiences!
We care deeply even when it’s tough.
We confront cultural challenges in real time.
We inspire life-changing relationships for lasting success.
Youth Equipped to Succeed is made up of unique individuals from all walks of life, yet we come together to serve the mission of: Growing value and vision in youth by combating isolation and imparting hope. We respect, value, and celebrate diverse life experiences and heritages and ensure that all voices are empowered and heard. We believe this is what better connects us to the students, parents, and educators we serve from all cultural backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses. We are committed to modeling diversity and inclusion within our board of directors’ governance, staff members, community partners and volunteers, and strive to continue an ongoing conversation and reflection of our efforts.
Students today are facing significant cultural pressures and a barrage of negative messages that generations before them never experienced. Years of increasing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and other issues related to mental health among young people have only worsened because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the permeation of social media. The U.S. Surgeon General has called for a coordinated and urgent action to address the current youth mental health crisis.
That’s why at YES we live by the philosophy of: A connected student is a protected student.®
We exist to give all students across all socioeconomic groups the opportunity to say, “YES!” to their dreams and goals, and “no” to destructive choices. Our positive youth development programs drive catalytic change in the lives of K-12th grade students, and equip them with the knowledge attitudes, and skills they need to achieve more healthy and successful futures.
(Large Assemblies): Our nationally recognized speakers provide powerful and purposeful messages by sharing their own stories of overcoming adversity.
(Research-Based): Our professionally trained team of speakers deliver research-based content, putting students on a path toward healthy and successful futures.
(Unique In-School Model): Providing positive peer connections and learning opportunities that are highly engaging and vital to students’ social and emotional development needs.
Over 4.8 million students, parents and educators have been impacted through our resourced experiences! Whether you make a one-time gift, or become a monthly donor, your contribution of any size will bring hope and connection to the students we serve, their parents and educators. Thank you for your support!