About YMS

 In 1971,  a concerned group of professionals and community residents associated with the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department met to discuss the needs of area children and youth.  In March of 1973, the organization was chartered by the State of New York as a private, non-profit youth serving agency known as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara County.  In November of 2013, the organization underwent a name change, and is now known as Youth Mentoring Services.  The organization is financially supported by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, the United Way of Greater Niagara, private foundations, individual donors, and fund-raising efforts.                                             

The YMS Mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of children and youth and to assist them in achieving their highest potential as they grow to become productive, responsible, and caring citizens.

 YMS offers a variety of group mentoring programs based on a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum that is presented at sites across Niagara County. The curriculum includes interactive activities that address Self Awareness, Self Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Building, and Responsible Decision Making.

 

Nationally accredited mentoring program since 2017