YSS

At YSS, Prevention Specialists work to promote substance-free lifestyle choices through education of the health consequences related to using Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug (ATOD) products, availability of cessation services, creation of substance-free policies, and promotion of awareness events. Prevention Specialists are available to provide educational opportunities for community groups and schools about substance-related topics and assist in the development of ATOD-free policies.

YSS’s Kids Club program is designed to support healthy development beyond the classroom. Building on your child’s natural desire to learn new things, our programming helps them become more self-reliant.

Our fully-trained, high-quality staff create a nurturing, comfortable and positive environment, allowing children to build positive relationships with caring adults.

You have made a positive first step to get help in managing your mental health needs. At YSS Family Counseling & Clinic, we provide a skilled and experienced team of professionals to serve you and your family.

Talking to children about child abuse prevention can be challenging for parents. YSS’s Talking About Touching program provides children with the fundamental skills to deal with dangerous situations and supports families and teachers in discussing sensitive, but critical issues with children. This program discusses fire safety, gun safety, bullying, how to ask for help and safe/unsafe touches. It’s designed for children in preschool through second grade and is taught according to the Committee for Children curriculum, which is nationally recognized, research-based and developmentally appropriate. There are up to thirteen 30 minute sessions for each grade level. Talking About Touching is a program developed by the Committee for Children. For more information, please go to their website.

https://www.yss.org/program/teens-against-human-trafficking/

The YSS Mentoring Program is unique in the communities we serve, with nearly 20 years of successfully matching children and mentors, creating life-changing—and often life-long—relationships.

We hold the distinction of being certified by the Iowa Mentoring Partnership, which requires adherence to strict guidelines and best practices established by MENTOR, the National Mentoring Partnership.

Abuse. Neglect. Chaos. Conflict. Many kids escape frightening and often dangerous situations, finding safety and solace at YSS. Our programs offer struggling youth and families, support and direction toward something they may have never experienced - hope.

Youth and young adults in Iowa struggle with homelessness for many reasons. They may have aged out of the foster care system, cannot live safely with a parent or family member, or don't have stable living arrangements. Our programs focus on helping these homeless youth - including pregnant or parenting families - to live independently and become self-sufficient.

Often a last resort for runaway and homeless youth, the YSS Transitional Living (TLP) and Supportive Housing Programs (Rapid Rehousing – RRH) help those who are non-system involved, meaning they are not placed or directly supported by any governmental payment agency. A case manager works one-on-one with each client to help them set and achieve educational, employment, and independent living goals.