About The MultiCare Youth Foundation
IN THE BUSINESS OF CHANGING LIVES
With Innovation, Flexibility, Partnerships and Cutting-edge Tools.
30+
years and counting
Established as a beacon of hope amidst Jamaica’s socio-economic challenges, the MultiCare Youth Foundation (MYF) traces its origins to the amalgamation of three esteemed youth-centric organisations on March 31, 2017. This historic merger brought together the legacies of The MultiCare Foundation, Youth Upliftment Through Employment (YUTE), and Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU), each contributing unique expertise and experience to the collective mission of empowering Jamaica’s youth.
Triple Threat
The MultiCare Foundation, founded in 1993, pioneered efforts to enrich the lives of children in 32 underserved schools through sports and the visual and performing arts. Meanwhile, YUTE, launched in 2010 by the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ), focused on providing skills training and employment opportunities for unattached and at-risk youth. Lastly, YOU, established in 1991, emerged as Jamaica’s premier mentoring organisation, dedicated to guiding at-risk high school students from the brink of dropping out.
Combining the strengths of these organisations, MYF emerged as a dynamic force in youth development, committed to breaking the cycle of crime and violence by empowering vulnerable Jamaican youth. Spanning 72 years of combined experience, MYF has positively impacted the lives of over 200,000 children and youth across 70 marginalised communities in six parishes.
Our Five Pillars to Success
At the heart of MYF’s approach lie five critical pillars: Life Skills, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Vocational Skills, Mentorship, and Internships/Job Placement. These pillars are the cornerstone of MYF’s award-winning initiatives, recognised for their holistic approach to youth empowerment and socio-economic advancement.
In response to shifting societal dynamics, MYF made a strategic pivot in December 2019, refocusing its efforts on youth aged 16-29, identified as the most vulnerable to crime and violence. This strategic realignment involved forging partnerships with government agencies, civil society organisations, and international donors to provide tailored support and opportunities for at-risk youth.
Innovation Is At Our Core
MYF’s commitment to innovation exemplifies its adoption of cutting-edge tools and strategies. From the internationally acclaimed Passport to SuccessTM life skills training system to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy workshops, MYF leverages the latest methodologies to maximise impact and effectiveness.
Moreover, integrating the Youth Targeting Tool developed by the Citizens Security and Justice Programme enables MYF to conduct precise risk assessments and monitor program outcomes.
Despite facing unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, MYF has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. MYF ensured its beneficiaries received uninterrupted support and resources through innovative solutions and community engagement efforts, empowering them to navigate those turbulent times with resilience and determination.
As MYF continues its journey of empowerment and transformation, it remains steadfast in its commitment to creating brighter futures for Jamaica’s youth. By forging pathways to success and nurturing the potential of each individual, MYF stands as a beacon of hope for generations to come, embodying the spirit of positive change and social progress.