Youth Guidance – Providing life-changing mentoring programs to Indian River County Youth

51 Years of Fueling
Champions of the Future

Who We Are

Youth Guidance was established in 1973 to help children living in Indian River County break the cycle of poverty through positive mentoring relationships. We provide life-changing programs year-round that create pathways to academic success and meaningful careers. All programs and services are provided at no cost to families thanks to the generosity of the local community.

Impact

Indian River County youth served since inception.

Active volunteers and one-on-one mentors.

Students in our Pre Apprenticeship earned industry certifications.

Program Spotlight: Pre-Apprenticeship

Through its Pre-Apprenticeship programs, Youth Guidance offers Indian River County teenagers and young adults (ages 17-24) the opportunity to earn industry certifications and learn the skills needed to enter the trades sector.

We currently offer two Pre-Apprenticeship programs: Construction Trades and Culinary Arts.

Youth Guidance provides these programs at no cost to students.

Building for the Next Generation

Youth Guidance recently completed major renovations on its main facility, located in downtown Vero Beach. Our teenagers and young adults now have access to a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen, construction trades lab, technology center, and more.

News

Youth Guidance Celebrates Ribbon Cutting

November 10th, 2025: Youth Guidance Celebrates Grand Opening of Newly Renovated Facility

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Youth Guidance Accredited as CAP Center

October 1st, 2025: Youth Guidance Accredited as Child Abuse Prevention Center by National Exchange Club

Youth Guidance Hosts Pre-Apprenticeship Graduation

July 20th, 2025: Youth Guidance honored 17 students who graduated from its Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship program.

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Orchid Island Hosts 5K Walk & Run Benefiting Youth Guidance

June 4, 2025: Youth Guidance was honored to be the recipient of Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club's annual 5k run/walk event.

Youth Guidance Selected to Receive Impact 100 Grant

May 1, 2025: Youth Guidance received a grant from Impact 100 of Indian River County to launch the Culinary Academy.

Youth Served by King of the Hill and Donor Reception

April 10, 2025: Youth Guidance hosts reception for major donors and facilitates 30th Annual King of the HIll Tennis Tournament.

‘Luau’ Highlights Heartening Happenings at Youth Guidance

December 19, 2024: The 47th Annual Tropical Night Luau was Youth Guidance's most successful fundraiser to date, supporting more than 200 local youth.

Mentors Pour into Students with Trade Skills, Certifications

July 11, 2024: The Youth Guidance construction trades Pre-Apprenticeship program is preparing Indian River County youth for meaningful careers.

Youth Guidance’s New Program ‘Homes’ in on Helping Parents

January 5, 2023: Youth Guidance embarks on a capital campaign to enhance programs while serving more youth and families.

Learn More

More Articles Featuring Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy

Click the button below to access our News Page, which includes a list of stories featuring programs, special events, and more!

News Page

Success Story

– LaDonna Corbin, Parent

"Since moving back to Indian River County, the Youth Guidance program has been fantastic, supporting my children through their journey. Three of my kids have graduated with their invaluable assistance. My last two children are currently benefitting from the wide range of opportunities they offer. This wonderful free resource is indeed a blessing for our family."