Y-KNOT Inc

Y-KNOT’s programs primarily target at-risk youth residing in Prince George's County, MD who have developed destructive behaviors and lack motivation due to peer pressure, social issues, and lack of support. We provide life skills and mentoring programs to youth, an indisputable need for at-risk youth in our local area. Over 30 percent of children nationwide live in households headed by a single parent (or no parent), a rate that has doubled over the past 15 years. Six in ten African American children live in households of this type throughout Prince George’s County, a ratio that far exceeds that national pace. Estimates indicate that upwards of 9 million children have no caring adults in their lives. Substantial evidence of success from past and current mentoring programs exists, and mentoring has been proven as a difference-maker in the lives of at-risk young people by providing them with opportunities that could propel them forward in life. The target market for Y-KNOT is middle to high school-aged youth, residing in economically disadvantaged areas of Prince George’s County, that have developed destructive habits that will lead down a path of hopelessness. Y-KNOT has created a series of mentoring programs that pair youth with a trained mentor who will assist him or her in developing the habits and perspective that will lead to success and hopefulness in the future. Additionally, young people that have dropped out of school, are behind academically, connected with the juvenile justice system, are pregnant or with child, and/or searching for their identity are suitable participants in our program.