Areas of Focus

At school:

Our substance abuse prevention efforts deliver important information and life skills training to middle-graders. In 2005 we expanded to serve High School students in Watauga County and select middlegraders in Ashe and Avery counties. The goals of WYN's prevention programming are to build strong personal commitments, improve school performance, decrease drug involvement, and decrease emotional distress. prevention >>

After school:

WYN provides the only structured after school option for middle-graders in Watauga County. Highly skilled staff and trained volunteers provide homework assistance, skill building, recreation and community service opportunities in a safe, supportive environment. WYN focuses on fun and accountability during the critical after school hours. after school >>

During the summer:

We use outdoor adventures, experiential education, service learning projects and team building to strengthen selfawareness, leadership and social skills. summer time >>

When they're feeling alone:

WYN's mentoring initiative has been matching 6-17 year old youth with compassionate adults, who serve as positive role models, for more than 20 years. Some of our mentees are referred by the court system or law enforcement, while others request a mentor because they see how much fun their friends are having. Whether learning specific skills or building character by experiencing life's journey together, it's hard to tell who benefits the most from the mentormentee relationship. mentoring >>

When they want to celebrate:

WYN is geared towards helping kids recognize their own unique talents and skills. We love to catch kids succeeding and will be the first to join in celebration of good choices and lessons learned.

"There are so many things I like about WYN! I have been particularly pleased by the after school program — WYN has reached out into the communities to serve a wide variety of students, not just those who are "at-risk" for difficulties. This creates a true youth center feel where kids can come together for recreation, learning and guidance. Keep up the good work!"

Carmen Patella
Hardin Park Elementary