Press Release

Kansas City, MO — Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging youth in service to their communities, is pleased to announce a new effort to expand youth service opportunities with Navy Child and Youth Programs (CYP). This initiative will introduce YVC’s service-learning model at up to 20 Navy installations worldwide, bringing structured volunteer opportunities to military-connected youth ages 11–18.

Through this effort, Navy Youth Centers will enhance their existing service-learning programming by integrating Youth Volunteer Corps project resources and training throughout the year. These opportunities will allow military-connected youth to address real-world challenges through meaningful volunteer projects while building leadership skills, strengthening their communities, and connecting with peers through shared service experiences.

Service-learning is an educational approach that combines meaningful community service with instruction and reflection. Through this model, youth gain a deeper understanding of community needs while developing the skills and confidence to take action and make a positive impact.

A Shared Commitment to Youth Development

“We are honored to work with Navy Child and Youth Programs to bring Youth Volunteer Corps opportunities to new communities and continue expanding youth service globally,” said Tracy Hale, CEO of Youth Volunteer Corps. “This effort reflects the universal importance of youth service and its ability to inspire young people, regardless of where they live or the unique challenges they face.”

Participation in service-learning programs has been shown to build important life and work skills such as teamwork, adaptability, and problem solving. According to  YVC’s 2025 Network Evaluation, independently conducted by the Midwest Center for Nonprofit Research, youth participating in YVC programs also demonstrate improved academic engagement and stronger leadership development.

“Through this contract, Navy Child and Youth Programs is strengthening its service-learning programming by providing additional opportunities for military-connected youth to participate in meaningful volunteer and community service activities,” said Brent Edwards, Youth Programs Coordinator for Navy Child and Youth Programs.

Youth Volunteer Corps operates under a model that emphasizes youth choice, youth voice, and community impact. Participating Navy Youth Centers will have access to YVC’s training resources, project development tools, and national network of service-learning professionals. CYP professionals will facilitate volunteer experiences designed to be developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and aligned with Navy youth programming standards.

Youth will have opportunities to design and participate in service projects addressing issues such as environmental stewardship, food insecurity, intergenerational outreach, and community wellness. These experiences build on Navy Child and Youth Programs’ existing service-learning efforts while providing additional structure, training, and resources to support youth-led service initiatives.

Implementation is expected to begin in 2026 with a phased onboarding of participating Navy installations. The long-term goal is to support sustainable service-learning opportunities that strengthen youth engagement and community connections across all Navy regions.

About Youth Volunteer Corps

Founded in 1987, Youth Volunteer Corps is a nonprofit organization that engages youth ages 11–18 in team-based service projects that address real needs in their communities. With affiliates across the United States and Canada, YVC empowers young people to build life skills, foster a commitment to service, and create positive community impact.

About Navy Child and Youth Programs

Navy Child and Youth Programs provide high-quality care and enrichment opportunities for military-connected youth worldwide. Through a network of 104 Youth Centers across 70 shore installations, CYP supports positive youth development through programs that promote leadership, academic success, healthy lifestyles, and strong connections to family and community.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Emily Unsen, Marketing Manager
Youth Volunteer Corps
816.472.9822 x203
eunsen@yvc.org
Website: www.yvc.org