Welcome to New American Youth Advocate

Our vision is to champion and encourage self-sufficiency among youth and families by providing support in employment, education, and cultural and social aspects.

Youth Development and Leadership

NAYA’s youth program development is targeted towards young individuals between the ages of 12 and 21 in the state of Vermont. The aim of these programs is to create safe and supportive environments that foster positive interactions and promote social and emotional development. We prioritize enrichment opportunities, offering activities and experiences that contribute to academic, personal, social, and recreational growth.

Our comprehensive programs employ various resources, such as mentoring, tutoring, job training, arts, culture, technology, sports, and play, to cultivate essential 21st-century skills. These skills encompass effective cross-cultural communication, decision-making, collaborative teamwork, creativity, innovation, problem-solving, and critical thinking. We are committed to equipping young people with the vital skills they need to succeed in life.

At NAYA, our dedication lies in providing dynamic and relevant programming that prepares today’s youth to navigate life’s challenges successfully. Our focus includes leadership development for at-risk middle and high school youth, emphasizing academic achievement, school attendance, prevention of risky behavior, social skill development, conflict resolution, financial literacy, and offering safe recreational activities during after-school and out-of-school hours.

In addition to our youth programs, NAYA offers employment services that cater to job-seekers of all levels within Vermont. Regardless of limited English proficiency, education, or work experience, we assist youth in establishing meaningful and realistic employment plans. By matching individuals’ transferable skills with local business needs, we aim to enhance family economic stability, enabling youth to achieve self-sufficiency. This approach not only leads to early economic independence for families but also contributes significantly to their overall well-being and future achievements.