Mar Vista Learning Center

Neighborhood Youth Association (NYA)

The setting is warm and friendly. A large recreation room is on the first floor, classroom space; open space for group activities; small classroom space for individual tutoring and a computer lab are located on the second floor. Outdoor recreational and sports activities take place on the fields of Grandview Elementary School, which is located adjacent to our Center.

Founded in 1906, the Neighborhood Youth Association (NYA) serves at-risk youth and their families by providing long-term, in-depth educational enhancement and mentoring support programs. NYA is a model agency for non-profits worldwide and is known for vital, innovative and effective services benefiting children from pre-school through high school.

NYA has been at the forefront of community service since its inception. >From its early days as a pioneer in social work and education before the advent of trained social workers and schools, to its development of programs for alienated Mexican youth in the 1940's, today NYA continues to target the changing needs of an evolving community. In 1982, NYA was one of a dozen organizations selected by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention in Washington, D.C. to receive funding for "Act Together," a comprehensive service model designed for youth at-risk. In the 1990's NYA adapted Act Together to create the successful present-day PERSONAL BEST program. NYA has been a United Way agency for 80 years, and is currently a partner in the United Way Tomorrow's Leaders program. NYA has also served as a training ground for graduate interns since 1948.

Highlights:
NYA curriculum is based on the Personal Best model comprised of four primary focus areas: ACE (Academic/Curriculum Enhancement) compliments a student's school curriculum with academic skills building and computer skills training, PALS (Personal and Living Skills) develops problem solving skills, self-esteem, social and communication skills, the Career Planning process exposes youth to a variety of careers and educational opportunities and Cultural Recreation Enrichment exposes children to a wide variety of arts, performance and recreational events.

Tutoring; parent support;; referral services

In addition to academic assistance, NYA gives young people the opportunity to explore and expand their social awareness though artistic, cultural and recreational excursions. NYA youth leaders and volunteers guide students on educational field trips to art and science museums, music and theater performances, parks and beaches. NYA also offers lessons and hands-on instruction in art, dance, health and exercise, martial arts and music.

Vendella Barnett, Executive Director Neighborhood Youth Association (Admin) 1016 Pleasant View Avenue Venice, CA 90291 310-664-8893 Dawn Miralle, Site Manager Mar Vista Learning Center 3877 Grandview Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90066 310-390-6641