New Direction Youth Initiative was created with a simple belief: every young person deserves positive influences, meaningful opportunities, and people who believe in their future.

We serve teens ages 13–17 in Licking County, with a special focus on youth who may be facing challenges, struggling in school, becoming involved with the juvenile justice system, or simply needing some extra encouragement and direction during an important time in their lives.

We believe raising and supporting young people takes a community. Our goal isn't to replace the support of parents, families, schools, or other programs—but to add another layer of positive people and experiences around our teens.

Through our 8-week program, youth gain hands-on experience with life skills, career and trade exploration, financial literacy, health and hygiene, job readiness, and mentorship. Local tradespeople, healthcare professionals, first responders, business owners, educators, and other community members help bring these lessons to life.

But New Direction is about more than teaching skills.

We want teens to share a meal, build relationships with positive adults, experience new things, discover their strengths, and learn about opportunities they may not have considered before.

Every young person will face challenges as they grow. Sometimes one new experience, one positive connection, or one person believing in them can make a lasting difference.

Our goal is to help young people see the possibilities ahead of them—and give them the tools, connections, and confidence to choose their own New Direction.