First off, Happy New Year!  Chapter 2012 let us begin!!

As I look back to 2011, I can't help but smile a little, laugh a lot, if not I might cry, and feel a bit of relief that it's over.  I'm sure it's no surprise to anyone reading this that NYEP financially struggled in 2011, like many others.  We've done several things to keep our doors open including going from employees to contractors, many who continue to provide volunteer hours to keep up the level of programming provided in 2010.  

What has become more apparent than ever is the relevancy of NYEP's programming.  With only half of our young people prepared to live on their own and be productive members of our workforce, independent living programs are becoming more and more of a necessity to prevent long term poverty and homelessness.

In 2011 it became clear to NYEP that most of the funding allocated to young people for positive development, basic needs and supports to help them achieve self sufficiency are being directed towards intensive therapeutic care clients and/or "non-housing first" approaches.  NYEP does a really great job working with willing youth, who with 12-18 months of residential independent living services, can live productively on their own.  Unfortunately these youth receive little to no funding but could be contributing to our economy in a short period of time with a little help.  NYEP seeks funding year around to support these youth. 

It has also become clear what is most effective in working with this older youth population - a caring relationship with a trusted adult.  I believe this is the component that really allows NYEP to make a difference in the lives of the youth it serves.  NYEP staff spends time each day with its residents to teach them skills, reinforce positive steps they've made, supportively confront any undesirable behaviors, monitor to insure that new skills and behaviors are becoming part of their lifestyle, and nurture and support them to become a complete person with their own personality, style, dreams, ideas, desires and  dislikes.  And, we look forward to doing it again this year.

If you are looking to get involved with a progressive organization, making a real difference in the lives of those that it serves, consider NYEP.  There is a lot of work to do, and we can sure use the help.  We are currently seeking a CPA and Marketing/PR guru to join our board and others to join the fundraising committee.  We work hard and play hard at NYEP, come see for your self.

Here's to a healthy and prosperous New Year to you my friend!

Thank you!

• Four NYEP residents will be graduating soon and need items for their new apartment. Please contact us here to inquire about their needs, if you would like to make a donation. 
• Former NYEP resident, Patty is currently home visiting for the holiday. Boy, we have missed her!!
• Marilyn York  joined our Board of Directors.
• NYEP will begin it's first "Jeans for Teens" campaign in February. Keep an eye our for updates!!
• NYEP's Executive Director, Monica DuPea and residents Janinna and Miesha were interviewed by KOLO 8 on 12/07/2011. Click here to see their interview!!
• NYEP's Executive Director, Monica DuPea spoke for Western Nevada's Community Foundation's High School Giving Circle about being involved with non-profit work. 

• Collection of incentive items - hygiene items (shampoo, conditioner, comb, brush, toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, razors, soap, tampons, pads, deodorant), coats, backpacks, socks, underwear, scarves, beanies, shoes, towels, lighters, gift cards, haircuts, laundry services

• Food/drinks - late dinner, breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, bottled water, coffee, creamer, cups, plates, napkins, garbage bags, utensils

• Art supplies - postcards, markers, scissors, magazines, stickers, colored pencils, glue sticks, poster board and other art supplies

• Extra adults to support youth volunteers during shifts:

1/25 - 10pm -4am

1/26 - 4am - 10am

1/26 - 10am - 4pm

1/26 - 4pm - Midnight