Our Mission
My 180 Youth Program, Inc. is dedicated to helping youth achieve well-being through mentoring relationships.
Our History
My 180 Youth Program, Inc. was founded in July 2012 by Roy Jefferson. From his personal, career, and volunteer experiences he understood the need for young people to have access to enriching experiences with positive adults, while removing barriers to ensure this was possible for all families. We offer a relationship-centered approach to help young men 10 to 18 years of age achieve the needed experiences that can contribute to their well-being.
Young Adults Who Were At-Risk for Falling Off Track But Had a Mentor Are:
55% more likely to enroll in college
78% more likely to volunteer regularly
90% are interested in becoming a mentor
130% more likeky to hold leadership positions
Why Mentoring
Adolescence is a time of growth and discovery. According to the United States Census Bureau, adolescents made up 13% of the United States population in 2015, nearly 42 million youth ages 10-19. During adolescence, youth are discovering life goals and making plans for their future. As young people journey through their adolescent years they will be presented with choices both positive and negative. From abstaining from risky behavior to exploring college and career options, a mentor can provide support and encouragement. We believe that through mentoring we can establish supports for youth empowering them to fulfill their dreams.
Support with Education
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Students who meet regularly with their mentors are 52% less likely than their peers to skip a day of school and 37% less likely to skip a class (Big Brothers Big Sisters).
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Young adults who face an opportunity gap but have a mentor are 55% more likely to be enrolled in college than those who did not have a mentor. (The Mentoring Effect, 2014)
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Better attendance, better chance of attending higher education, mentored youth maintain better attitudes towards school. (The Role of Risk, 2013)
Support with Daily Life
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Youth who meet regularly with their mentors are 46% less likely than their peers to start using illegal drugs and 27% less likely to start drinking (Big Brothers Big Sisters).
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Young adults who face an opportunity gap bit have a mentor are: 81% more likely to participate regularly in sports or extracurricular activities than those who do not. (The Mentoring Effect, 2014)
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A study showed that the strongest benefit from mentoring, and most consistent across risk groups, was a reduction in depressive symptoms. (The Role of Risk, 2013)
Support with Career
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Helping set career goals and taking steps to realize them.
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Mentors can use their personal contacts to help young people meet industry professionals, find internships and locate job possibilities.
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Introduce young people to professional resources and organizations they may not be familiar with.
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Skills for seeking a job, interviewing for a job, and keeping a job.