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Overview
What our youth programs do
Camino's youth programs support young people during adolescence, when identity, self-belief, emotional growth, and future direction are being shaped. Through mentorship, workshops, experiential learning, and community-building opportunities, youth gain the tools they need to thrive in school, in relationships, in leadership, and in life.
Our programs are designed to help young people feel seen, supported, and encouraged while building the practical and emotional skills that prepare them for adulthood.
Youth program pathways
Elevation of U After School Pathway
Runs 2 hours per week for 3 quarters (fall, winter, spring), every Wednesday, delivering 39 sessions over 9 months for low income youth in Dutchess County at Pawling Elementary School.
Camino: Inteligencia Emocional
Social Emotional Learning Pathway
A supportive and interactive series designed to help low-income high school students strengthen emotional intelligence, resilience, and leadership skills.
- Stronger academic outcomes
- Better mental health and behavior
- Key life skills
Camino: Financiero
Financial Pathway
A financial preparedness program for low-income teens. Through engaging, hands-on workshops led by professionals from KeyBank, JPMorgan Chase, and other financial institutions, students gain foundational and advanced money management skills to navigate adulthood with confidence and independence.
- Better decision and life outcomes
- Protection from harm
- Stronger Financial Behavior
Camino: Asesoría Secundaria y Posterior
High School and Beyond Advisory Pathway
A comprehensive advisory program that guides low-income high school students through the critical transition from high school to higher education, vocational training, or career pathways.
- Financial Aid application support
- College Essay Support
- 1-1 mentorship
- Group sessions
- Career goal planning
Lead With Heart Workforce Program
In collaboration with the Youth Employment Program (YEP), funded through the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board (DCWIB), this initiative provides meaningful paid work experiences for youth residents of Dutchess County while building transferable skills for long-term success.
- Resume Building
- Better future Outcomes
- Real World Experience
- Confidence and Independence
Connection
Why family supports matter to youth success
Young people are more likely to engage and thrive when their families have stability, food access, trusted guidance, and culturally responsive support. That is why Camino pairs youth development with family-facing services that reduce barriers and strengthen the home environment. Our youth programs are strongest when families are supported too.
Youth Program
Our Sponsors
Thank you to the organizations that support our mission in Dutchess County.
Your Generosity Changes Lives
Every dollar you give goes directly to feeding families and empowering teens right here in Dutchess County.
Your $10 provides fresh produce for one family for one week, helping nourish children and adults throughout Dutchess County.
Your $25 feeds a complete family for one full week, including proteins, produce, and pantry staples for meaningful, nutritious meals.
Your $50 sponsors one teen through the full Elevation Program Series, covering materials, workshops, and facilitator support for three months.
Your $100 transforms an entire family for a month, combining food support and teen enrichment to create lasting, generational change in Dutchess County.
All donations go directly to programs serving families and teens in Dutchess County, New York. 100% of donations go to our mission via Zeffy.
Support youth opportunity
Give through our Zeffy campaign—100% supports Camino's mission.