East Liberty nonprofit Youth Enrichment Services Named 2019 Champion in Action
“Trib Total Media recognizes the power of the mentorship provided to young people in the Pittsburgh region by Youth Enrichment Services.”
— Jennifer Bertetto, Trib Total Media President and CEO
By Courier Editor, March 4, 2019
The New Pittsburgh Courier has learned that Youth Enrichment Services (YES), a nonprofit providing socially and economically at-risk youth the opportunity to achieve success through participation in mentorship, education and enrichment programs, has been named a 2019 Champion in Action in the category of Youth Leadership. The award, announced jointly by Citizens Bank, WPXI-TV, Trib Total Media and Pittsburgh Cares, includes $35,000 in unrestricted funding as well as promotional and volunteer support for the organization’s outstanding work, according to a release.
Youth Enrichment Services (YES) provides empowerment, experiential opportunities, academic enrichment and summer employment as positive pathways to future success. YES partners with local organizations to create synergy and generates transformative stories, national accolades and positive research outcomes.
College Prep
Academic Preparation
College Prep (CP) is designed for 11th and 12th grade students who are interested in receiving admission testing support, one-on-one mentorship and college guidance, exposure to collegiate contexts, and assistance in completing college and scholarship application materials. What sets YES’ college prep apart from others is the level of staff commitment in providing students with individualized support and service tailoring. Whether it’s past program hours or on the weekend, staff support students throughout their pre-college and college journeys.
Goals:
Primary goals include helping students:
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Prepare to successfully navigate the collegiate landscape.
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Explore collegiate opportunities.
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Build marketable application profiles to compete against peers.
Students Engage In:
Admission Testing Support
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Weekly sessions are held giving youth the opportunity to gain personalized assistance with their SATs and ACTS. Sessions are 3 hours in length and consist of English and Math workshops, writing, and practice exams. This is ideal for students who are looking to improve their scores, or to be more prepared for their first exams.
iMentor Meetings
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Students are paired with a YES staff member to begin planning for college. Staff assist students in choosing a college or university, filling out applications, ensuring students have all the necessary paperwork completed and turned in, assessing their needs/wants in a college, etc. YES staff work with students twice per month to customize a plan and timeline specific to student needs.
College Application Development Sessions
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Sessions designed to help students complete applications, write application essays, and work on their resumes and cover letters. Colleges have different application processes, which can be overwhelming for students. As such, YES staff is helps streamline the process. Students also receive edits and feedback on their writing, so they can ensure their work adheres to college and university application standards.
College 101 Sessions
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Once a month, students attend College 101 sessions to learn more about financial aid, major selection, campus life –the hidden curriculum! These factors are extremely important when selecting a college or university. As such, College 101 gives students the chance to ask any and all questions regarding college, the application process, financial aid and scholarships, school selection, and other concerns.
College Tours and Visits
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Students attend group tours and select two out-of-state tours of colleges they would like to visit. These opportunities are at no costs to students.
Program Length:
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September – June
Eligibility Status:
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11th – 12th grade