School Community Youth Collaborative
Supporting youth in Montezuma County since 1999
Our Mission
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SCYC supports youth on their path to
healthy adulthood.
Our Vision
All youth are valued and thriving members of our community.
Get to Know Us
The School Community Youth Collaborative (SCYC) was established in 1999 and began as a coalition of local organizations serving youth and families. The Coalition consisted of committed people working together to prevent substance abuse and violence in youth ten to eighteen years old. It was a great forum to connect non-profits, government, community-based organizations, local businesses, and schools who focused on youth development in Montezuma and Dolores Counties, and the monthly meetings ensured no organizations were duplicating efforts.
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Recently, SCYC shifted its focus from preventing negative behaviors to promoting positive ones. Research by Dr. Jeff Linkenbach on the "Science of the Positive," demonstrated that encouraging healthy behaviors through positive peer pressure is much more effective in helping youth succeed. So, SCYC and our partners began the process of adjusting our approach to reflect the new evidence-based strategy. Yes, there are intractable problems young people face so, we made it our mission to focus on growing positive opportunities for youth so they can truly thrive.
Why Youth Matter
At SCYC, we are dedicated to creating a supportive environment that go beyond traditional education, focusing on building strong social skills and encouraging positive interpersonal relationships.
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Access to youth activities, outside and during school, and other pro-social opportunities are critical for instilling empathy, teamwork, and effective communication. These experiences not only enhance personal development but also contribute to the creation of responsible, compassionate citizens.
SCYC is committed to providing a variety of programs and initiatives that expose young minds to diverse social scenarios, encouraging them to develop crucial life skills. By engaging in these pro-social activities, youth not only gain a deeper understanding of themselves but also learn how to navigate the complexities of interpersonal dynamics, fostering a sense of belonging and resilience that will benefit them throughout their lives.
