YES! Atlanta

YES! Atlanta transforms the lives of "at-risk" youth ages 14-17 through educational and personal development coaching. 

We believe in second chances for our children. Since 1988 we have striven to eradicate the high dropout rate in our public schools that is strongly correlated to eventual incarceration.  Yes! Atlanta has helped 1,000 students overcome the obstacles that stood in the way of their high school graduation.  We are very proud that 70%+ of our students leave the juvenile system.

Yes! works with teachers, parents, the judicial system to help “at-risk” students graduate.  Through our programs, our youth learn the value of educational advancement, and the life skills to break their cycle of negativity.  Following the intensive, our youth re-engage in school attendance, improve academic performance, have better relationships, and a better worldview.

While youth enter our program through our partners, they may continue to participate voluntarily until graduation or placement in college or vocational school.

Scope of Activities
Youth Intensive
We provide a “Youth Intensive” course that provides hope and a new path for “at risk” youth.  Our five-day intensive addresses the key issues impacting our students, including hopelessness, distrust of others, and low self-esteem.  From group activities to guest speakers, the youth are challenged to think and behave in new ways that are beneficial to themselves and their long-term success.

Coaching For Success
We accept 50-60 youth capable of escaping the cycle of underperformance for a weekly tutoring session titled “Coaching for Success.”  Most of our youth come to the program through the judicial system for non-violent events such as school truancy.  We provide a safe atmosphere, and students attend voluntarily, which we believe is key to their understanding of responsibility and opportunity.  While we sustain the “program,” the key ingredient to our program is the bond between our tutors and the youth.  To complement the education sessions, we occasionally take the youth to various arts, sports, or other community events to expand their worlds.