WHO WE ARE
The Foundation For Youth (FFY) in Columbus, Indiana, has been a dedicated community pillar for over 90 years, inspiring and empowering the youth of the region. Established in 1928, FFY's mission is to provide young individuals with the resources and opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive. FFY offers a diverse range of programs, including sports leagues, after-school activities, camps, and mentoring services, all designed to support the physical, social, and emotional development of youth. By promoting values such as teamwork, responsibility, and leadership, FFY strives to help young people become well-rounded, confident individuals ready to succeed in life.
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FFY is committed to making a positive impact on youth in Columbus and surrounding areas, ensuring that every child has access to safe, engaging, and enriching experiences. The FFY's programs reach thousands of children each year, providing them with opportunities to build friendships, develop new skills, and enhance their academic and personal growth. As a nonprofit organization, FFY relies on community support, volunteers, and partnerships to sustain its programs and expand its outreach. Through its efforts, FFY continues to be a vital resource for building a stronger, more connected community, one child at a time.
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The Foundation For Youth is a 501(C)(3) Nonprofit.
OUR MISSION AND VISION
MISSION
To Inspire and Enable Our Youth, Our Community
VISION
Be a community leader empowering our youth to build healthy and productive futures through access to world class programs and facilities; made possible by professional staff and committed supporters.
OUR VALUES
IMPACT
We focus on achieving lasting and positive change by devoting ourselves to empowering youth to reach their full potential.
SUSTAINABILITY
We work to support the current needs of our community’s youth while planning for those of the future.
OPPORTUNITY
We create possibilities and equitable opportunities for participants to grow and thrive.
CONNECTION
We strive to create an welcoming environment where all feel safe, respected, and supported as valued contributors and we celebrate the diversity of our kids.
COMMUNITY
We develop meaningful connections and foster collaborations to advance and strengthen collective outcomes.
LEADERSHIP
We motivate others to embrace common goals and align resources to maximize our impact.
OUR CORNERSTONES
Character and leadership as a cornerstone of youth development involve teaching young people the importance of honesty, responsibility, and empathy. By emphasizing these values, youth are empowered to make ethical decisions, lead by example, and positively impact their peers and communities. This foundation helps them grow into confident, compassionate leaders capable of navigating challenges and inspiring others.
Commitment to Learning as a cornerstone of youth development encourages young people to embrace curiosity, perseverance, and a growth mindset. It involves fostering a love for learning, both in and outside of the classroom, and instilling the belief that hard work and continuous improvement lead to success. This mindset helps youth develop the resilience to overcome obstacles and the motivation to pursue their goals.
Positive Identity as a cornerstone of youth development focuses on helping young people build self-esteem, confidence, and a strong sense of who they are. It encourages them to embrace their unique qualities, values, and cultural backgrounds, fostering resilience and a sense of purpose. With a positive identity, youth are more likely to make healthy choices, form meaningful relationships, and contribute confidently to their communities.
Healthy Lifestyles as a cornerstone of youth development emphasize the importance of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It encourages young people to make nutritious choices, stay active, manage stress, and build positive habits that support their overall health. By prioritizing healthy lifestyles, youth are better equipped to navigate challenges, maintain strong relationships, and thrive in all areas of life.
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STAY IN THE KNOW!
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