Building Connections: Youth Connect Foundation's Vision for Inclusive Social Skills Support
In a new initiative, Strivesocial has established the Youth Connect Foundation, bringing the internationally acclaimed PEERS® (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) program to Australian youth, with ambitious plans to expand through strategic grant funding.
A Vision for Growth
The Youth Connect Foundation is actively pursuing grants to extend their reach and impact, with a clear mission to make essential social skills education accessible to more young people across Australia. Their 2025 vision includes:
Delivering programs to 20 schools
Impacting 500 students
Creating lasting community connections
Improving mental health outcomes through social engagement
The Power of Evidence-Based Support
The PEERS® program, developed at UCLA and implemented globally, stands as a gold standard in social skills education. This comprehensive program offers:
Structured, evidence-based social skills training
Proven success in improving social knowledge
Measurable increases in successful peer interactions
Significant reduction in anxiety and loneliness.
Our Three-Tiered Approach
School Programs The foundation's flagship PEERS® social skills education program provides vital tools for effective communication, friendship building, and self-confidence development through interactive sessions and engaging activities.
Social Groups Understanding the importance of practical application, we offer special interest classes where young people can connect with peers who share their interests, creating natural opportunities for friendship development.
Individual Coaching Personalized coaching sessions ensure that participants receive targeted support tailored to their specific needs and goals.
Making a Measurable Impact
Research shows that PEERS® participants experience:
Increased social knowledge and skills
More frequent successful social interactions
Decreased feelings of loneliness
Reduced anxiety levels
Improved overall mental wellbeing.
The Grant-Funded Future
Through strategic grant applications, the Youth Connect Foundation aims to:
Expand program accessibility
Develop new community partnerships
Enhance program offerings
Reach underserved communities
Create sustainable long-term impact.
Get Involved
The Youth Connect Foundation welcomes community support through:
Program participation
Volunteer opportunities
Grant partnerships
Community collaboration.
Looking Forward
As a not-for-profit initiative by Strivesocial, the Youth Connect Foundation represents a significant step forward in addressing youth mental health through social connection. By combining evidence-based programming with accessible community activities, they're creating a comprehensive approach to youth development that benefits both individuals and communities.
For more information about programs or to support this vital initiative, reach out to Youth Connect Foundation today.
