Providing Youth and Teens With Life and Psychosocial Skills Through Education, Empowerment, and Employment

Who we are

LIFT (Life Improvement for Transformation) is a purpose-driven non-profit organization committed to uplifting at-risk youth through education, empowerment, and employment preparation. We help young people build resilience and develop core life skills to thrive in school, relationships, and work environments.

Who we support

We serve at-risk youth identified through partnerships with schools, social service agencies, and community programs. Our focus is on children and teens facing multiple challenges including those that have family support needs, exposure to community violence, behavioral instability, disability, trauma, and academic struggles.

Understanding At-Risk Youth

An at-risk child may be defined as one who is exposed to conditions likely to hinder development or success in life. These factors include but are not limited to:

  • Low socio-economic background
  • Academic underperformance
  • Disability or developmental delays
  • Exposure to abuse, neglect, or violence
  • Unstable home life
  • Mental health challenges
Assess if your teen could benefit from our FREE support

The 3E Approach

Educate, Empower, Employ

The 3E Approach is LIFT’s unique model for helping youth develop the skills, confidence, and support networks they need to succeed. View full definition here.

Educate
  • Teach essential life and social skills
  • Provide psychoeducational content through engaging online and in-person workshops
  • Focus on personal development and character building
Empower
  • Promote self-worth, resilience, and healthy identity formation
  • Encourage critical thinking, emotional awareness, and decision-making
Employ
  • Prepare youth for employment with real-world readiness skills
  • Foster responsibility, time management, and interpersonal effectiveness

Courses We Offer

Life Skills for Everyday Living

Social Skills & Communication

Decision-Making & Problem Solving

Emotional Regulation & Coping Strategies

Psychosocial Competence Training

Online and In-Person Interactive Workshops

Why Life Skills Matter

These skills help children and teens make informed decisions, manage emotions, and build positive relationships:

  • Critical thinking
  • Creative thinking
  • Effective communication
  • Self-awareness
  • Empathy
  • Stress management

Parenting Resources

We equip parents and caregivers with tools to support their child and teen's development. Resources include:

  • Workshops on behavior and communication strategies
  • Guides for building resilience at home
  • Checklists for recognizing at-risk signs in children and teens
  • Tips for partnering with schools and community resources
FREE Teen Quick Reference Guides
Communicating with adults
Tough Decision-making
Recognizing and Handling Bullying
Practicing Emotional Self-Control
Building Confidence

Who we are

Our mission
LIFT empowers at-risk youth by providing life-changing education, mentorship, and practical skills that promote resilience, purpose, and long-term success. Through our 3E Approach—Educate, Empower, Employ—we create inclusive opportunities that transform lives and communities, guiding young people toward a brighter future.
Our values

At LIFT, we believe every young person deserves the chance to rise. Our work is grounded in the following values:

  • Equity – We are committed to eliminating barriers and addressing the unique needs of each youth we serve.
  • Compassion – We meet our participants with empathy, understanding their challenges without judgment.
  • Empowerment – We build confidence through education, encouragement, and skills that last a lifetime.
  • Collaboration – We partner with families, schools, and communities to ensure collective impact.
  • Accountability – We model integrity, responsibility, and self-awareness in all we do.
  • Growth – We champion personal development, resilience, and lifelong learning.
  • Inclusion – We welcome youth of all abilities and backgrounds, creating a safe space for growth and belonging.

Is My Child At-Risk?

If your child is struggling in school, withdrawing socially, showing signs of distress, or dealing with instability at home, they may benefit from added support. LIFT provides assessments and referrals to help guide next steps.

Contact us: info@lift3e.org | © 2025 Life Improvement for Transformation