Programs That Build Sustainable Bridges

Simply Youth Institute offers creative, academic, and career-building experiences that help young people move with confidence—supported by the families, mentors, and educators who walk beside them. Together, we’re creating real pathways to purpose, stability, and leadership.

Our Approach to Growth

Since 2019, Simply Youth Institute has supported young people—especially young women—in Los Angeles, CA, and Lane County, OR, with programs that blend mentorship, creative expression, financial literacy, and workforce development. Every offering is designed to affirm identity, empower resilience, and equip young people with the tools they need to step confidently into their futures.

SAGACITY Leadership (Ages 13–19)

“Lead with wisdom. Live with purpose.”

SAGACITY is an after-school leadership experience for young women that cultivates confidence, voice, and vision. Through creative expression, financial literacy, and career exploration, participants set personal and professional goals, connect with mentors, and build the skills to navigate school, work, and life with clarity and purpose.

“At fifteen years old, I reflected many of the shy and reserved qualities that many young girls can relate to... However, upon attending Simply Youth Institute's Sagacity Summer Leadership program, I flourished into a confident and empowered young woman.”

SYI Workforce Internship (Ages 18–26)

“Work, learn, and grow with your community.”

This immersive internship experience prepares young adults to step confidently into the professional world. Through mentorship, skill-building workshops, and hands-on collaboration, participants explore career pathways, develop critical soft skills, and build connections with industry leaders. Offered in both Los Angeles and Lane County, Oregon, the SYI Workforce Internship helps young people turn potential into purpose.

as a young woman of color coming into college as a first-generation student, I wish that I had more guidance in this new environment, being able to help young women in a similar position in communities in Oregon under the SYI mission line with my future career goals as I want to work with children in underserved communities in the medical field,
Jessalyn Beninati
University of Oregon

SYI Community Events (Young People & Caregivers)

“Community is where change begins.”

Our events bring together young people and the adults who support them—families, caregivers, mentors, and neighbors. Through healing-centered gatherings, creative workshops, and resource-rich programming, we create spaces where youth and their support systems can connect, learn, and grow together.

From youth-led town halls and multilingual family workshops, to financial wellness events, art showcases, and civic engagement days, every gathering is designed to spark wise decision-making, strengthen relationships, and celebrate collective growth.

Your Journey Starts Here