YouthWorksNYC: Virtual Mentoring for Youth in Foster Care

NYAM is partnering with the New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) to promote health equity among youth in foster care and juvenile justice settings. ACS and NYAM launched YouthworksNYC through this partnership, a virtual mentoring program focusing on the health and well-being of older youth in New York City foster care. Following a successful pilot in 2020, the program expanded in 2021 to reach more youth with funding from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation. In 2023, the program has developed to include three core functions: mentoring youth in foster care in New York City, convening stakeholders in mentoring services, and partnering with the community to cultivate mentors.

About Us

The New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM)

NYAM tackles the barriers that prevent every individual from living a healthy life. We generate the knowledge needed to change the systems that prevent people from accessing what they need to be healthy such as safe and affordable housing, healthy food, healthcare and more. Through high-profile programming for the general public, focused symposia for health professionals, and a base of dedicated Fellows and Members, NYAM engages the minds and hearts of those who also value advancing health equity to maximize health for all.

The Administration for Children’s Services (ACS)

ACS protects and promotes safety and well-being of New York City’s children and families by providing child welfare, juvenile justice, and early care and education services.

Our Funders

The 2021 YouthworksNYC program is made possible by the generous support of Mother Cabrini Health Foundation. The Foundation provides grants to improve the health and well-being of vulnerable New Yorkers, bolster the health outcomes of diverse communities, eliminate barriers to care, and bridge gaps in health services.

“Our grants seek to ensure that essential health and social service providers receive the support necessary to address an unprecedented level of health-related needs across New York State.”
Msgr. Gregory Mustaciuolo
Chief Executive Officer, Mother Cabrini Health Foundation

NYAM would also like to thank the New York Community Trust for their flexibility during the covid pandemic to pivot funds from our East Harlem Action Collaborative to address this critical need and support formation of the initial Youthworks pilot program.