Youth Leadership and Wellness Academy
Our mission is to equip young men with the tools, mindset, and support network needed to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally — breaking cycles of underachievement and creating pathways to college, career, and positive community engagement.
Youth Leadership and Wellness Academy is an in-school intervention program designed to support at-risk male students who demonstrate patterns of low academic performance, chronic behavioral issues, or disengagement from school. The program focuses on addressing the root causes of these challenges through mentorship, academic support, and life skills development, helping each student build confidence, self-discipline, and a vision for success beyond the classroom. Mental health and wellness and emotional safety of every child is our highest priority to support this commitment, our staff includes certified Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) responders who are trained to recognize early signs of emotional distress, respond appropriately, and connect youth with the support they need.
Target Population
Middle and high school males identified as at risk due to poor academic performance, repeated disciplinary referrals, attendance issues, or other behavioral concerns.
Students referred by school counselors, administrators, or teachers.
Program Components Leadership Academy
1. Academic Assistance
Daily or weekly academic tutoring and homework support sessions.
Collaboration with teachers to monitor grades, progress, and missing assignments.
Academic goal setting and progress tracking for each participant.
Study habits and time management workshops.
2. Life Skills & Character Development
Sessions focused on communication, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, leadership, and accountability.
Discussions on topics like decision-making, respect, and perseverance.
Role-playing and group projects to build teamwork and empathy.
Incorporation of sports or structured physical activities to reinforce teamwork and discipline.
3. Mentorship & Positive Male Role Models
Weekly mentorship meetings with trained mentors and community leaders.
Exposure to positive male figures from diverse professional backgrounds.
Group mentoring discussions about real-life challenges and choices.
4. College & Career Preparation
Workshops on college readiness, trade programs, and career pathways.
Guidance on setting academic and personal goals beyond high school.
Guest speakers from colleges, trade schools, and community organizations.
Resume writing, interview skills, and financial literacy training.
5. Behavioral Support & Accountability
Individualized behavior improvement plans developed with school staff.
Incentive-based system recognizing improved behavior, attendance, and grades.
Restorative practices to address conflicts and rebuild peer relationships.
Program Schedule
Frequency: 2–4 days per week (during or after school hours, depending on school schedule).
Duration: Semester-long or full-year program.
Format: Combination of small group sessions, 1-on-1 mentoring, and academic support blocks.
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the program, participating students will:
Improve academic performance and classroom engagement.
Reduce disciplinary incidents and increase attendance.
Strengthen self-esteem, social-emotional skills, and goal-setting ability.
Develop a clear plan for success after high school (college, trade, or workforce).
Partnership with Schools
The program is implemented in collaboration with school administrators, counselors, and teachers. Schools provide access to identified students and space for program activities; Chosen Breed F.O.O.T.P.R.I.N.T.S INC provides trained mentors, facilitators, and curriculum.
Wellness Academy
Our Certified Mental Health First Responders play a vital role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and emotional stability of the at-risk youth we serve. These trained professionals act as the first line of support when a young person is experiencing emotional distress, behavioral challenges, or early signs of developing mental health concern.
Key Duties Include:
1. Early Identification & Observation
Monitor youth for warning signs of anxiety, depression, trauma responses, or escalating behaviors.
Recognize shifts in mood, academic engagement, social interactions, or self-regulation.
Document and communicate concerns to program leadership and guardians when appropriate.
2. Immediate Support & Crisis Response
Provide calm, supportive, and non-judgmental assistance during moments of emotional or behavioral crisis.
Use de-escalation techniques to reduce tension and help youth regain control.
Ensure youth are safe while stabilizing the situation until additional support (counselors, school staff, guardians) is engaged.
3. Connection to Professional Resources
Refer youth to licensed mental health professionals for further evaluation or ongoing counseling when needed.
Coordinate with school counselors, community mental health partners, and families to ensure continuous care.
Track follow-up steps to ensure the youth receives the right level of support.