Our vision
A future where every young person is empowered to shape their community
Youth Education Services of America (YES America) envisions a fulfilling environment for every youth: an inclusive, thriving, participatory society where every young person, regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity, support, and resources to reach their full intellectual, social, emotional, and physical potential.
Our vision
No young person left out
We envision a future where all young people, especially those from underserved communities, are empowered to discover their strengths, develop their leadership abilities, and actively participate in shaping their communities and the future of American democracy.
We aspire to build a culture in which civic engagement, service-learning, community participation, and working for the common good are not merely individual choices, but shared values and essential responsibilities embraced by young people across America.
We believe that when young people are empowered, communities are strengthened, and democracy thrives. Through collaboration among youth, families, communities, educational institutions, and civic leaders, we envision an America where every young person has a meaningful voice, a sense of belonging, and the opportunity to contribute to a more equitable, inclusive, and prosperous future for all.
Our mission
Youth Education Services of America (YES America) is dedicated to empowering young people, particularly those from underserved communities, by providing inclusive educational opportunities, youth development programs, leadership training, service-learning experiences, and civic engagement initiatives that nurture their intellectual, social, emotional, and physical well-being.
We strive to ensure that every young person has the knowledge, skills, confidence, resources, and meaningful opportunities to discover their potential, develop their leadership abilities, exercise their voice, and actively participate in strengthening their communities and shaping the future of American democracy.
Through strategic partnerships with families, schools, community organizations, businesses, philanthropic institutions, and civic leaders, we mobilize resources and build collaborative relationships that expand opportunities for youth and promote equity, inclusion, responsible citizenship, and community development.
We are committed to fostering a culture in which service, civic participation, mutual respect, and working for the common good are shared values and essential practices. Through responsible stewardship of resources, evidence-informed programming, and continuous evaluation of our impact, YES America strives to create lasting opportunities for young people to thrive and become engaged citizens who contribute to a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society.
Our mission is to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to grow, the support to lead, the voice to participate, and the power to make a positive difference in their community and the nation.
Our founder
Dr. Francis S. Laari
CEO & Founder
Dr. Francis Laari is the CEO and founder of Youth Education Services of America (YES America), committed to empowering youth of all levels through accessible educational programs.
His dedication to providing equitable educational opportunities for all youth drives the organization’s mission to create a space where youth of all levels can explore their passions through the programs, bridge educational gaps and make a positive impact on their families and communities.
Dr, Laari spent over 14 years in law enforcement. As a law enforcement officer, he embraced leadership and responsibility as the hallmark of modeling the youth in every community.
As a passionate advocate for youth, Dr. Laari aims to inspire parents and every citizen to help unlock the potential in every youth.
Academic Achievement
By providing tutoring, enrichment programs, and access to educational resources.
Empower every student to overcome academic challenges and reach their full potential.
Equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed in college, vocational training, and the workforce.
Youth education and personal development
Community engagement opportunities
Mentoring and career development
Recognition and participation
Personal And Social Development
Teach young people essential life skills like communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, decision-making, and financial literacy.
Help promote healthy eating, physical activity, and mental well-being.
Positive reinforcement and opportunities for success can help young people develop a strong sense of self-worth.
Community Engagement & Citizenship
We encourage participation in community events, volunteerism, and advocacy efforts.
By fostering appreciation for diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives.
By providing safe spaces and social activities, connect with peers and mentors.
Additional Considerations
We consider the specific needs and interests of the young people.
Partnerships between schools, community organizations, and families can create a comprehensive network of support for youth.
Many programs aim to prevent problems like academic failure, drug abuse, or delinquency.
Our Values
The core values of Youth Education Services of America focus on the Learner; Learning and Growth; Positive Environment and Relationships; Social Responsibility and Community; Honesty and Integrity; and passion for youth advancement.
Focus On The Learner
Placing each young person’s needs, interests, and potential at the center of educational services.
Nurturing the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical well-being of young people.
Ensuring all youth, regardless of background or ability, have access to high-quality educational opportunities.
Learning And Growth
Instilling a passion for learning and exploration in young minds.
Equipping young people with the skills to think critically, analyze information, and solve problems effectively.
Fostering creativity, innovation, and a growth mindset in young people.
Positive Environment And Relationships
Creating a safe and supportive environment where young people feel respected, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Cultivating positive and trusting relationships between educators, youth, and families.
Embracing diversity, fostering inclusion, and celebrating the unique strengths and perspectives of all young people.
Social Responsibility And Community
Encouraging young people to become active and responsible citizens who contribute positively to their communities.
Promoting social justice and advocating for policies that ensure all young people have equal opportunities to thrive.
Encouraging a lifelong love of learning and a commitment to personal and professional growth.
We Also Prioritize
Understanding and appreciating diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Educating young people about environmental issues and promoting sustainability practices.
Equipping young people with the skills needed to be financially responsible and potentially become entrepreneurs.
Leveraging technology effectively to enhance learning and promote digital literacy.
Importance Of Honesty And Integrity
Young people and their families need to trust that the information they receive about programs, services, and outcomes is accurate and truthful.
Honest and ethical practices ensure that programs are designed and delivered effectively, focusing on the best interests of the young people being served.
Transparency in finances and program design allows for accountability and ensures resources are used efficiently and ethically.
By fostering an environment of honesty and integrity, young people learn valuable life lessons about truthfulness, ethical decision-making, and responsible behavior.
Ensuring Honesty And Integrity
Programs should clearly communicate their mission, goals, methods, and expected outcomes to all people.
All promotional materials, data reporting, and financial statements should be accurate and truthful.
Hiring qualified and experienced staff with strong ethical values is essential for delivering effective and honest services.
Regular program evaluations and incorporating feedback from participants and families helps ensure continuous improvement and transparency.
Direct Work With Youth
Many organizations and individuals work with Youth Education Services of America in various capacities, supporting youth through after-school programs and mentorship initiatives. Find one that aligns with your interests and skills.
If you have the qualifications, consider a career path directly impacting young people’s education and development. Explore teaching, youth counseling, or social work.
Share your knowledge and experience by coaching and leading a youth group or mentoring a young person one-on-one.
Advocacy And Awareness
Contact Youth Education Services of America and bring our attention to challenges faced by young people, such as access to education, mental health awareness and resources, suicide prevention and/or youth social justice issues.
Educate yourself about policies that impact young people and advocate for initiatives that promote their well-being and opportunities.
Support youth organizations fighting for educational equity, mental health resources, or youth leadership opportunities.
Network with educators, youth workers, and researchers to gain insights and learn best practices in youth advancement.
Resources
YES America Video Podcast
Conversations recorded by YES America with young people, families, educators and community leaders. New episodes are coming soon.
Talking About Mental Health
How young people, parents and teachers can start honest conversations about mental health and where to find help.
What Makes a Young Leader
Youth leaders share how they found their voice and started projects that improve their communities.
Planning for College and Careers
Practical steps for college, vocational training, scholarships and first jobs.
Inspiring Success Stories
Young people in our programs share how they grew, what they achieved and the difference they are making in their communities.
Event Highlights
Videos and photos from our conferences, workshops, forums and community service days.
Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, free and available 24/7.
Have an idea for an episode or want to be a guest? Contact Youth Education Services of America.
Stay connected
News and updates from YES America
Sign up for news and updates — programs, events, conferences and forums.
Be part of the vision
Become a member, enroll a young person, or support our programs.