What Is Youth Assisting Youth?

Youth Assisting Youth (YAY) - The Youth Mentoring People, is a non-profit charitable organization that provides a peer mentoring service to improve life prospects for at-risk and newcomer children. YAY matches children with trained and dedicated Youth Volunteers who act as positive role models. Since 1976 YAY has helped more than 20,000 young people

Established in Scarborough, YAY now serves the GTA, York and Peel Region and plans to expand the service across Ontario and Canada.

YAY prevents problems before they start. Prevention is the key. We provide much-needed support to a wide range of children between the ages of 6-15 who are experiencing behavioural, social, emotional and or cultural difficulties. A peer mentor that they can rely on and confide in makes an enormous difference to these children's lives.

To support our core One to One program we offer a number of other services. While waiting to be matched our young people can participate in our Pre-Match program or the Saddle Up for Success therapeutic riding program. Through the education component of our program YAY offers School 2 School, After School Group Mentoring and Tri-Mentoring.

Who Are The Children?

Children aged 6-15 who would benefit from having a mentor are referred to YAY through a variety of social services, health care, and educational organizations. There are no limitations on family structure.

A child’s problems may include emotional, behavioural or social and relate to life skills, self esteem, peer relations and / or family dynamics.

A child undergoing problems as a result of cultural transition can benefit from having a peer mentor who is sensitive and respectful towards their heritage.

Children with more complex needs may be referred to more appropriate resources and services.