November 12, 2024 | From City of New Orleans
City of New Orleans Launches Comprehensive Youth Programs Directory
The City of New Orleans today announced the launch of the revamped New Orleans Youth Programs Directory, a valuable resource aimed at ensuring all youth have access to vital programs and services that support their development. This initiative is made possible through a partnership between the Mayor’s Office of Youth and Families (OYF), the New Orleans Youth Alliance (NOYA), the New Orleans Children and Youth Planning Board (CYPB), and STEM Library Lab.
“Knowing the landscape of amenities and opportunities for young people is key to promoting and supporting connectedness," said Asya Howlette, Director, Office of Youth and Families. "Our young people deserve to be in a city that is well resourced with accessible experiences. The Youth Programs Directory is one of several ways we are working to meet young people where they are and to be intentional about the opportunity of future investments.”
The New Orleans Youth Programs Directory aligns with the New Orleans Youth Master Plan, prioritizing equitable access to opportunities that allow young people to develop to their fullest potential. The directory is regularly updated by participating partners to provide up-to-date information on available services and resources. Outreach for partnerships is facilitated through community meetings, social media, newsletters, and direct referrals.
"The Youth Programs Directory aims to connect our local young people with arts, mentorship, sports, and academic events, programming and other resources," said Todd Wackerman, Director, STEM Library Lab. "We're excited to work with the Mayor's Office of Youth and Families, NOYA, and CYPB to revitalize this tool, and bring more equitable access across our community for finding and participating in youth-facing opportunities."
How It Works
The Youth Programs Directory is a collaborative tool for youth and family-serving organizations, which are invited to create a profile to be included. Profiles are subject to approval by the site administrator, ensuring that only relevant and valuable programs are featured. By contributing to the directory, organizations help support a comprehensive system of resources available to youth across the city. Some organizations have pre-uploaded profiles if they had been listed in the original directory, but these must be claimed to post opportunities for youth.
“CYPB is thrilled to introduce the updated Youth Programs Directory, designed to enhance collaboration across various systems and programs in line with the Youth Master Plan,” said Deja Jones, Youth Specialist, CYPB. "As the Youth Specialist at CYPB, I frequently hear from young people and their supporters about the need for a centralized resource to help them navigate available options. This living document will fulfill that need and promote continued collaboration among organizations dedicated to supporting youth."
“The New Orleans Youth Alliance is honored to be part of this invaluable project for our community," said Dr. James Dabney, Executive Director, NOYA. "The New Orleans Youth Directory is, yet another example of our Youth Master Plan coming to life and evidencing its impact. In an unparalleled way, this invaluable tool will connect our young people and their families to varied and diverse programs and services offered in our city designed to enhance their quality of life. There are plenty of resources available in New Orleans for our young people; the Directory brings these resources to their fingertips.”
Get Involved
- Youth-serving organizations: Visit www.youthprogramsdirectory.org and scroll down to press SIGN-UP. Follow instructions and start posting opportunities!
- Youth and Families can begin exploring opportunities by visiting www.youthprogramsdirectory.org
- Questions about the New Orleans Youth Programs Directory can be directed to database@stemlibrarylab.org
- This collaborative effort embodies the city's commitment to supporting young people and their families, providing them with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. To learn more about this initiative visit www.nola.gov/ypd
About the Partners:
- The New Orleans Youth Alliance (NOYA) is dedicated to improving outcomes for all youth through collaborative partnerships and advocacy. Visit https://noya.org
- The New Orleans Children and Youth Planning Board (CYPB) focuses on strengthening systems and resources for children, youth, and families. Visit www.nolacypb.org
- The Mayor’s Office of Youth and Families (OYF) works to advance equitable outcomes for children and families by developing and promoting supportive policies and programs. Visit www.nola.gov/youth
- STEM Library Lab provides educational resources to teachers and students with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and math. Visit https://stemlibrarylab.org