Youth Services Organizations

The Hawn Foundation works in partnership with organizations other than schools to bring MindUP™ to before and after school programs. We encourage schools and youth service organizations to share the goal of ensuring the academic success and social emotional growth of young people. MindUP™ fosters the development of social skills and encourages attitudes of empathy and gratitude. Building on emotional competencies acquired through MindUP™ lessons, acts of kindness are emphasized in the hope of inspiring children to become lifelong contributors to their communities.

Youth Service America, an international nonprofit resource center, reports that young people involved in volunteering have higher educational achievement rates. Its studies also indicate that as adults, young people who volunteer are more likely to become active citizens.

The Hawn Foundation has already worked with Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs, such as the YMCA of Akron, Ohio.