Every child deserves a place where they feel safe, supported, and valued. For hundreds of Ogden-area youth, that place is Youth Impact.
For more than 30 years, the nonprofit organization has provided after-school and summer programming for at-risk and underserved youth, creating opportunities that help children succeed both in and out of the classroom. From academic support and mentoring to athletics, arts, STEM education, and career-focused programs, Youth Impact offers much more than a place to spend a few hours after school.
"Youth Impact isn't just a building," says Program Manager and Interim Director Ali Conde. "It's like a second home to these kids. They learn that they matter here. No matter what kind of background they come from, you matter."
Each afternoon, students arrive ready to learn, connect, and grow. Homework help and tutoring provide academic support, while a dedicated mentor helps each participant track grades, navigate challenges, and build confidence. Mentors also work closely with families, schools, and community partners to ensure students have the support they need to succeed.
The opportunities extend far beyond academics. Youth Impact offers sports programs, art, theater, welding, STEM education, guitar instruction, Ballet Folklórico, and mariachi music. These experiences allow children to explore new interests, discover hidden talents, and gain skills that shape their futures.
One of the organization's most exciting areas of growth is its culinary program.
The small makeshift kitchen has evolved into a fully equipped culinary space thanks to generous community support and fundraising efforts. Today, students learn food preparation, kitchen safety, teamwork, and culinary techniques while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
The program also serves an important purpose within the organization. Six student participants help prepare meals that are served to their peers each evening, creating a sense of responsibility and pride while developing real-world skills. Dinner might include tacos, spaghetti, salad, beans and rice, garlic bread, and other hearty meals enjoyed together around the table.
That daily meal is one of the many ways Youth Impact creates a sense of family. For some participants, it may be the most consistent hot meal of the day. For all of them, it is an opportunity to gather, connect, and belong.
Another aspect that makes Youth Impact unique is its commitment to accessibility. Staff members pick students up directly from their schools and transport them to the program each afternoon. At the end of the evening, every child is driven home to their doorstep.
For many working families, transportation can be one of the biggest barriers to participation in after-school programs. By eliminating that obstacle, Youth Impact ensures more children have access to the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need.
The need becomes even greater during the summer months when school is out of session. Without the structure and support that school provides, many young people face long days with limited supervision and few opportunities for enrichment. Youth Impact fills that gap through summer programming, field trips, community service projects, and partnerships with local organizations, including the Ogden Raptors and Ogden Mustangs.
These life-changing programs are made possible through grants, donations, volunteers, and community fundraisers. The organization's annual gala recently raised nearly $200,000 to help sustain summer operations, while its popular Casino Night fundraiser has helped fund major improvements, including the culinary kitchen that serves students today.
Through every ride home, every homework assignment completed, every meal served, and every mentor relationship built, Youth Impact continues to invest in the future of local youth.
At Youth Impact, success isn't measured only by grades, programs, or fundraising totals. It's measured by the young people who leave each day knowing they are valued, supported, and capable of achieving more than they ever imagined.
Find out more at youthimpactogden.org
Youth Impact isn't just a building; it's a second home to kids.