Organization: Yonkers Partners in Education (YPIE)

Location: Yonkers, NY

Programming Summary

Academics

To ensure that students are ready for the rigor of college, YPIE Scholars receive individualized academic instruction and tutoring in core subject areas after school at the YPIE College Zone.

Adult Coaching and Mental Health Counseling

Each YPIE Scholar is assigned a College Readiness Manager who meets with students in and out of school to target school challenge areas and create action plans for success. YPIE Scholars can also be matched with a volunteer mentor, called a Graduation Coach, who forms deep personal relationships with students and provides support throughout high school.

In partnership with Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS), YPIE provides mental health services to students and support to their staff and volunteers. A licensed clinical social worker, in coordination with YPIE, provides individual, family, and group therapy to their high school students and consultation and training to staff and volunteers.

Majors (Career Pathways)

YPIE Scholars can select from different “majors” that give them tangible skills and deep exposure to future careers while preparing them for the rigor of college academic work. Key partners, including Regeneron and Webster Bank, elevate the experience outside of the classroom. Students can choose from a variety of majors, including Science Research, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Journalism, Health, Film, and Debate. Learn more about YPIE majors here.

College Access

College Advising: In 11th grade, YPIE Scholars and Fellows are matched with a College Advisor who helps students throughout the college process with the goal of enrolling in a “best fit” (academically, geographically, and financially) college.

College Applications: YPIE College Advisors and trained volunteers help students with all aspects of their college applications, including crafting a college essay, visiting colleges, and completing their applications.

Financial Aid Support: YPIE staff and trained volunteers provide assistance to students to identify and complete applications for financial aid, including federal, state, and school-based scholarships. Final college offer letters also are reviewed and compared to assist students make cost-effective decisions.

College Persistence

Transition to College: During the summer between high school and college, YPIE students receive personalized assistance to complete the important steps required to transition and enroll in college. Staff and volunteers help students navigate housing decisions, medical forms, financial aid paperwork, and much more.

College Persistence Coaching: YPIE students are assigned a dedicated college success advisor who meets with them as needed in person and/or via video chat as needed throughout their college journey.

Career Advising: YPIE advisors help students explore possible career options, prepare for the job application process, and connect with YPIE’s vast network of professionals for job and internship opportunities.

Demographics

Identifying Programmatic Needs

What were the main needs identified in your initial assessments?

YPIE's initial assessments revealed several critical needs among their first-generation college students. These students often face immense pressure to succeed, which can significantly impact their well-being. Key challenges include:

• Mental health and wellness: Many students experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges but are reluctant to seek support due to stigma and concerns about affordability, especially if they are uninsured.
• Financial barriers: The cost of mental health care is a significant concern, preventing many students from accessing the necessary support.
• Parental consent issues: High school students under 18 often face obstacles in obtaining professional help due to the need for parental consent. Once they turn 18, they can seek care independently, but overcoming the stigma associated with mental health services remains a challenge.

Implementation of Strategies and Activities

What were the key activities undertaken during the project?

• Development of emergency procedures with their partners at WJCS included in YPIE staff manual including a tracker of student mental health progress in their database
• Refining their referral process to services available
• Staff training and guidance by WJCS professionals during weekly professional development workshops accompanied with Youth Mental Health First Aid training 

Outcomes and Impact

What have been the major outcomes of the project for your organization?

The major outcomes of the project include enhanced collaboration with YPIE's mental health experts at WJCS, facilitating a more streamlined referral process for accessing mental health resources. This improvement has led to greater access to mental health services for students, subsequently contributing to increased awareness and de-stigmatization of mental health issues within the organization.

How has this project impacted the support systems your organization has been able to create to support the mental health and wellness of students?

The project has had a significant impact on support systems by strengthening them through increased access to resources and streamlined referral processes. Staff members have been provided with training and guidance to better support student mental health needs, contributing to a culture of openness and de-stigmatization surrounding mental health services within the organization.

How has this project impacted the mental health and wellness of students?

The project has positively impacted student mental health by enhancing access to mental health resources and services, leading to increased awareness of mental health issues and available support options.

How has participating in this project impacted your organization?

Participating in the project has significantly impacted YPIE by fostering a stronger partnership with WJCS. This collaboration has not only strengthened their capacity to address student mental health needs but has also enhanced the skills and knowledge of their staff in supporting students' mental well-being. Overall, the project has played a vital role in strengthening organizational framework for addressing mental health concerns among students.