Trauma-Responsive Support for Boston Youth
Building safer, stronger futures through free mental health programs, advocacy, and support services.
Our Reach
Impacting Youth Across Boston
YouthConnect partners across every Boston neighborhood — meeting young people where they are, when they need it most.
18,000+
individuals served
since 1996
since 1996
100%
from limited-income
households
households
54%
reported improvements
in support systems
in support systems
44%
demonstrated mental
health progress
health progress
We’re embedded in police stations
across seven Boston neighborhoods:
across seven Boston neighborhoods:
Free, voluntary and rooted in trust – every step of the way.
About
How We Change Lives
Working alongside the Boston Police Department and community partners, our licensed social workers connect limited-income households and system-involved youth across Boston with trauma-informed care, resource coordination, and long-term support.
Our Support Programs
It’s free. It works.
Underserved youth across Boston face unique and complex challenges related to violence, instability, mental health, and involvement with the justice system.
Our programming moves us closer to a future where young people and their families have the resources to thrive — which creates a ripple effect, building stronger, safer and more supportive communities for all.
Our programming moves us closer to a future where young people and their families have the resources to thrive — which creates a ripple effect, building stronger, safer and more supportive communities for all.
“
I sometimes wonder what would’ve happened if YouthConnect wasn’t there. Honestly, I don’t think I’d be where I am today. You helped me see that I could write a different story for myself.
YouthConnect Client
What we do
Three ways we show up for Boston’s Youth
Free Social Work for Our Young People
Since 1996, we’ve provided free trauma-informed mental health services and advocacy support to youth and families across Boston.
Working with the Boston Police Department
Our social workers partner with the Boston Police Department to connect young people with critical support before crises escalate.
Meeting Families Where They Are
Our services are voluntary, flexible, and individualized, for case-by-case support rooted in healing and trust.
When Boston Police Officers refer young people to YouthConnect, they know they will be provided with clinical expertise and connections to services by caring and committed social workers. This holistic approach makes a very real difference in peoples’ lives and plays an important role in violence prevention in Boston neighborhoods.
Michael Cox Boston Police Department Commissioner
A message from
Mayor Michelle Wu
Hear directly from Mayor Wu about why YouthConnect matters for Boston families, and what it takes to keep our city’s young people supported, safe, and thriving.