In the early 1970’s, a group of community leaders came together to build positive futures for at-risk youth. After receiving our first grant of $25,000, our staff recognized that only working with youth would not be as productive as working with their families as well.
Soon after, YCI implemented job training and education programs that helped put parents and family members to work in good jobs with benefits that led to promotions and salary increases.
In 1982, we expanded into Refugee Services to provide specialized employment services for refugees, helping them integrate into the workforce. In 1997, Youth Co-Op joined the network of the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, expanding its capacity to serve refugee communities.
In 1998, Youth Co-Op founded the Youth Co-Op Preparatory Charter School, with a vision to inspire academic success and personal growth for students. Tuition-free schools were designed for parents and students who prefer a private school atmosphere, state-of-the-art facilities, high academic standards, and highly qualified teachers. Our schools offer individualized attention and close collaboration with students and parents to ensure every student is successful.
Today YCI provides quality, cost-effective services to any individual at no cost. Our mission is based upon a proven formula to educate, employ, and empower. Each year we meet the needs of thousands using this formula as our guide. We maintained a strong reputation, earning a 4/4 star rating from Charity Navigator for our effective and transparent operations. YCI’s vision is to be Florida’s human services partner of choice, delivering the quality services that focus on individuals and adds value to the communities in which we serve.
