In this episode of the Better Together Arizona podcast, ONE Community President and Co-Founder, Angela Hughey is joined by ONE Community Business Member Karen Johnson, CEO of New Pathways for Youth. 

Under Karen’s leadership, New Pathways for Youth signed the UNITY Pledge to show their commitment to inclusion, an important message as they work to serve a highly diverse youth population. 95% of the youth they serve are BIPOC and 30% identify as LGBTQ+.

New Pathways for Youth has been serving Phoenix youth aged 13 to 21 for 36 years. The organization facilitates a mentoring program combined with a personal development curriculum designed to support young people who have faced adversity and are seeking new opportunities and a connection with a caring adult. 

The youth served by New Pathways for Youth have three or more adverse childhood experiences, which can include abuse, neglect, family dysfunction, and other traumatic events.

The mentor commitment involves connecting with a mentee three times per month including a required “PowerUp” session focused on continuing the personal development curriculum. New Pathways for Youth provides significant support for mentors including coaching, case management, and a built-in community network.