Youth Connection Association

🤝 Mentorship, Advocacy & Support

Every young person deserves a champion. We pair youth with mentors, advocate for their needs, and provide wraparound support that turns obstacles into opportunities.

How We Stand With Our Youth

We connect, protect, and empower — with practical guidance, caring adults, and advocacy that moves systems, not just conversations.

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1:1 Mentorship

Consistent guidance on school, career, leadership, and life skills — week by week with a trained mentor.

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Advocacy & Navigation

We help youth navigate schools, services, and programs — speaking up, making plans, and opening doors.

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Safe, Trusted Support

Trauma-aware staff create safe spaces, ensure confidentiality, and connect youth to the right resources.

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Peer Circles

Small groups build confidence through shared stories, problem-solving, and accountability.

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Pathways & Referrals

Warm handoffs to mental health, housing, legal aid, tutoring, and employment partners.

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Milestones & Recognition

Certificates, showcase events, and leadership opportunities that celebrate growth and grit.

Real Relationships. Real Results.

We don’t apply band-aids. We build long-term support networks where youth are seen, heard, and equipped to lead. Mentors are screened, trained, and supported — so every match is safe and impactful.

“Mentorship is a bridge — from who I was told I am, to who I now know I can be.”
— Youth Connection Association

Who Can Join & When

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Ages

Open to ages 12–29. Separate cohorts for middle school, high school, and young adults.

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Schedule

Weekly mentor sessions + monthly peer circles. New matches start monthly.

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Format

In-person or virtual. Family/guardian participation optional for youth under 18.

Be matched with a mentor — or volunteer to mentor.

One decision can change a direction. Start today.

STILL NOT SURE?

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand the importance of clarity and are here to provide answers to your most common queries.

1. What is Youth Connection Association for Academic Excellence?

We are a non-profit community organization based in Windsor, Ontario, dedicated to empowering youth through academic support, mentorship, mental health programs, creative arts, job readiness, and community engagement.

2. Who can join your programs?

Our programs are open to children, teens, and young adults (ages 8–25). Some programs are age-specific (e.g. tutoring for school-age youth, job readiness for older teens/young adults).

3. Do I need to pay to join?

Most of our programs are free or low-cost, thanks to grants, donations, and community support. Some special events may require a small registration fee, but we never turn away youth because of financial barriers.