ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Thursday, a nonprofit celebrated a year of investing in young people and looked ahead to the next.
To date, Youth Empowering Services (Y.E.S.) has connected more than 180 Delta and Menominee County students with adult mentors. The organization’s inaugural Holiday Bash brought approximately 350 supporters and community members together inside the Ruth Butler Building at the U.P. State Fairgrounds.
Attendees enjoyed live music, catered food and drinks, and activities. Roughly 50 businesses provided raffle prizes and sponsorships to raise funds that will help Y.E.S. continue its work in 2024.
“This means so much to me that everyone cares about what we’re doing and that we’re all working together,” said Y.E.S. Executive Director Tiffany Hewitt. “We all live in the same community and want the same things. To me, seeing all the adults here tonight shows how many people are behind these kids.”
Youth Empowering Services plans to start three new mentorship programs in the new year, thanks in part to the money raised through the Holiday Bash.
To learn more about Youth Empowering Services or to apply to become a mentor, visit yes906.org or the Y.E.S. Facebook page. Click here to see a recent opportunity Youth Empowering Services provided for students at Escanaba’s Student Success Center.