Refugee youth empowerment Program

The Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) offers a safe and supportive space for refugee and newcomer youth to thrive. Our goal is to help these youth build confidence, overcome challenges, and succeed academically, emotionally, and socially in their new environment. 

Program Features

  • Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): We help newcomer youth develop essential life skills such as emotional regulation and healthy communication. Youth learn to navigate stress, build resilience, and foster positive relationships.
  • Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR): Empowering youth by giving them a platform to explore their experiences, share their needs, and design solutions through creative activities like photography and group discussions.
  • Mentoring & Tutoring: Volunteer mentors are paired with individual youth or small groups to offer academic help and build lasting, supportive relationships.

What We Offer to Families & Community Organizations

  • In-School Support: YEP partners with schools to offer social-emotional learning sessions which help newcomer youth navigate stress, set goals, and build resilience.
  • Individual Mentoring/Tutoring: Designed to help youth with homework, social skills, and personal challenges. Mentors help youth build confidence and connections with others.
  • Job Readiness/College Coaching: Individual & group coaching for high school students to help them explore options and prepare for their future.
  • Community Engagement: We offer activities and field trips to help youth explore their new community, connect with others, and build a sense of belonging.

Why It Matters

Newcomer youth face unique challenges such as language barriers, interrupted education, and trauma from displacement. YEP works to address these barriers by providing holistic support that builds confidence, academic skills, and emotional resilience. By helping youth build connections and explore their potential, we empower them to succeed in school and in life.

How can you get involved?

  • Volunteer as a mentor, tutor, or YEP program facilitator.
  • Refer newcomer youth in YEP program schools to our sessions (contact your school counselor or liaison).
  • Donate funds, school supplies, children’s clothes or snacks to help our youth succeed!

For more information contact us at youth.empowerment@lfsrm.org.