Let's be here to support our youth!

For 10 years Youth N.O.W. has provided a safe space that offers FREE TUTORING for Middle and High School youth in South County during the after school hours. Youth are provided with homework help, access to tech and Wi-Fi, project supplies, nutritious food, and various enrichment and life skills activities. Most importantly friendships are built, and caring staff and volunteers are available for guidance and mentorship. Without additional support many of our South County youth who face barriers are at a disadvantage to be successful academically and stay safe in the out of school time.

10 years of program growth with an immediate successful pivot during this pandemic, supporting any student in need with their academics, Youth N.O.W. is more than ever committed to be here for our students, providing the academic support and the relationships that impact grades, confidence and self-efficacy. Youth N.O.W. has been serving 120-150 students per school year with programming (55 students participate in the 5 week summer program.) Through fall 2020, 130 students received twice weekly 90 minute sessions and 20 students had access to our morning Pod which offers a safe space for students to have a way to do their school day while supervised.

The pandemic has certainly hit everyone and Youth N.O.W.  has sustained losses and increased costs during it, but we have work to do. Our mission as an organization is stronger than ever to support our students severely impacted by the distance learning format by providing them resources and supports that will allow them to be successful despite the limitations and challenges faced. Our front line workers, farm workers' families, and the community of Watsonville need resources that support their children.

“Youth N.O.W. has helped me through school and through anything else outside of school, such as when I need someone to talk to. When I think of Youth N.O.W. I think of home. I feel like without Youth N.O.W., this year would have been very difficult. Students just need someone or some program like Youth N.O.W. to count on for help of any kind.”

“The type of support Youth N.O.W. provides to the community is essential. The skyrocketed increase in the number of students wishing to participate in their program this year is the most telling sign of the importance and the need for this organization to continue.”