Youth On Their Own (YOTO), a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is a drop out prevention program that supports the high school graduation of homeless unaccompanied Metro Tucson youth ages 13 (or in 8th grade) through 21. Student clients are enrolled in public schools throughout the Tucson area – including charter and alternative schools – and are motivated to obtain their high school diplomas despite personal and financial hardship.

YOTO youth, through no fault of their own, do not have a parent or long-term legal guardian physically involved in their lives and a stable, permanent nighttime residence. The absence of caring, adult support and a consistent home environment is not conducive to successful school peformance, placing this population at great risk of dropping out of high school.

Thirty percent of today’s ninth graders will not graduate from high school. Reports indicate that those without a high school diploma are more unlikely to earn a living wage, continue the cycle of poverty and reliance on social services, and are at increased risk for substance abuse, incarceration and mental health problems throughout adulthood.

Established during the 1986/87 academic year, YOTO provides students with financial assistance, basic needs and guidance as they obtain their high school diplomas. The organization, with community contributions and support, has assisted over 10,000 students in achieving their educational and personal goals to become self-sufficient, productive adults within their communities. Student application to the Youth On Their Own program begins in the school that the student is attending through the YOTO School Liaison or designated school official.

Educating homeless teens. Investing in Tucson’s future.

CONTACT US

Youth On Their Own
1443 West Prince Road
Tucson, Arizona 85705
520.293.1136 (phone)
520.888.7233 (fax)

Regular Office Hours
M - Thu 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Tran Bus Lines
17 E/W and 10 N/S
Crossroads: Prince/Flowing Wells