Natural History Museum of Utah

Youth Teaching Youth Changes Lives.

For more than 20 years, the Natural History Museum of Utah's Youth Teaching Youth (YTY) program has changed the lives of underserved youth in the Glendale neighborhood – one of Salt Lake City’s most ethnically diverse and economically challenged areas.

As a multi-year mentoring program for middle and high school students, YTY is firmly grounded in science education and leadership development through:

·  Hands-on science education equipping students to teach science to others

·  Long-term, peer-to-peer mentoring opportunities

·  State-wide travel opportunities to work with NHMU scientists in field-based research

·  College preparation and state-wide higher ed visits

·  Exposure to science professionals and STEM-oriented career opportunities

 

Youth Teaching Youth: In the Classroom

In middle school, YTY students use the Museum’s rich teaching collections to teach lessons about adaptation, fossils, the Great Salt Lake, and geology to their younger 4th grade peers. In the process, they build essential leadership and communication skills, create lasting relationships, and begin thinking about STEM-focused career opportunities.

·  Recently, YTY kids led a group of 25 4th grade students on a daylong trip to the Great Salt Lake.

 

Youth Teaching Youth: Exploring our Environment

Through YTY, students can explore Utah and see – first hand – the amazing natural history of our incredible state. They work with Museum scientists to learn how to conduct field-based research.

YTY students recently traveled to:

·  Death Valley to discover world-renown geologic wonders and observe extreme adaptations

·  Canyonlands National Park to explore countless spires and deep canyons

·  Field sites alongside University of Utah scientists conducting research that bridges taxonomy and ecology

·  Various locations along the Wasatch Front with our partner, SPLORE, to enjoy outdoor activities, including rock-climbing, rafting, and cross-country skiing

 

Youth Teaching Youth: Your Impact

The strength of the Youth Teaching Youth program is the long-term, year-round mentorship offered for up to seven years. The consistency helps underserved youth meet the challenges associated with completing high school and offers positive role models to help them make thoughtful decisions.

A gift to YTY – in any amount – supports this incredible program and changes the life of our youth right here in Salt Lake City.