Youth On Their Own

Mission: Support the high school graduation and continued success of youth experiencing homelessness.

Since 1986, Youth On Their Own (YOTO) has been a steady source of support for young people in our community who are experiencing homelessness. What began as a small effort has grown into a comprehensive program providing financial assistance, basic necessities, and caring guidance—not to tens or even thousands, but to tens of thousands of youth over the past 40 years.

Most importantly, we know this work makes a real difference. With the help of YOTO services and the support of our community, YOTO seniors achieved an impressive 89% graduation rate last school year, despite the significant challenges they face.

At YOTO, we are committed to ensuring every student feels supported, encouraged, and equipped with the resources they need to keep going—both in school and beyond.

Being part of YOTO means being part of a shared commitment to help our community grow and thrive. The YOTO Family extends far beyond our staff and students. Your support provides the encouragement, stability, and opportunity that make our students’ success possible. On this Arizona Gives Day, we invite you to stand with YOTO youth and help them reach their goals.

To learn more about youth homelessness and our work, please visit www.yoto.org.

Testimonials

During the 2024–2025 school year, Youth On Their Own supported 1,504 students across our community. Despite facing homelessness and housing instability, 89% of YOTO seniors graduated—a powerful testament to what’s possible when young people are met with consistent support and belief.

YOTO youth come from diverse and often complex backgrounds:

• 1 in 5 identify as LGBTQ+

• 1 in 5 are parents or caregivers themselves

Throughout the year, YOTO delivered 179,643 essential basic needs items, including food, hygiene products, school supplies, and household goods—meeting immediate needs so students could stay focused on school and their futures.

When you donate to Youth On Their Own this Arizona Gives Day, you’re doing more than making a contribution—you’re showing young people experiencing homelessness that their community believes in them. Your generosity provides stability, dignity, and opportunity, helping students stay in school, reach graduation, and take their next steps with confidence.

Hear directly from YOTO youth about the impact of your support:

"The YOTO program has given me food to eat, stabilized my living situation thanks to the academic stipend, and provided emotional support that means a lot to me."

“YOTO’s support has meant a great deal to me. Without it, I would not have been able to continue my education and likely wouldn't have graduated high school. I truly appreciate everything YOTO has done for me and all the opportunities they have provided.”

“I am most proud of reaching out for help in the first place — that is always the hardest step. I’m very thankful for what YOTO does for me; it has changed my life significantly.”

"I am most proud of accomplishing the goals I set for myself this year. I'm very thankful for my teachers and everyone who kept pushing me to go to school and work hard."

“The YOTO program has meant so much to me. The monthly stipend helps me cover my basic needs, and whenever I visit the Mini Mall, I’m able to get the essentials I need to stay on track.”