The mission of Y-YOUTH Matter is to increase resiliency in our communities’ youth and their families through social-emotional support, academic development and healthy living initiatives, equipping them to achieve their greatest potential.

Nashua PAL provides free after school programming at the PAL Youth Safe Haven located at 52 Ash Street. The Center offers homework help, mentoring, various enrichment programs, and recreational activities. Nashua PAL also offers a host of sports programs for youth, including football, cheerleading, basketball, street hockey, cross country, and boxing (adult and youth for boxing only).

Making Change is a group model designed and developed by Second Growth to provide prevention education and guidance to adolescents and young adults within the pre-contemplative and contemplative stages of their journey toward harm-reduction and sobriety. Second Growth hosts two Making Change groups on Tuesday evenings beginning at 5 pm. The first Group is for teens between the ages of 11 and 14 who are middle-school aged. The second Group is for teens between the ages of 14 and 19 who are high-school aged. Between the two Groups we enjoy social time while we serve a casual meal of pizza and beverages. All participants are welcome to attend this dinner time break.

LEADERS IN TRAINING: For youth who have completed 9th or 10th grade. The Leader in Training program introduces teens to the skills needed to become leaders. This 5 week program fosters the YMCA leadership philosophy, effective communication, team building, first aid/CPR skills, life guarding skills, behavior management techniques, building relationships, and a foundation for pre- employment skills.

Our signature Summer Leadership Program is a dynamic residential week of leadership development, self-discovery, and social connection. Throughout the week, participants also increase their knowledge on a variety of topics including substance misuse and substance use disorders, bullying, sexual health, conflict resolution, and health and wellness.

The Leader In Training program is a blended, two-week camp experience for teens. This opportunity will introduce teens to the Y leadership philosophy, facilitating character development, learning to build and lead activities, as well as give them time to enjoy being a camper.

Zebra Crossings programs teens will have an opportunity to serve as a role model and mentor for younger participants, while learning and growing themselves.

CAST’s mission is to prevent substance misuse in the Souhegan Valley, promote healthy choices among youth, and educate, support, and strengthen families.