You-Turn Project(R) -- Opening Doors to Independence for Teens and Young Adults; Non-Profit...

LAWNDALE, Calif. -- In today's busy world, teens transitioning into adult life are getting lost in translation. Many do not have the skill set to make decisions that will lead them into an independent life and a healthy financial adulthood. And the education system isn't set up to teach

"You-Turn Project(R) provides today's youth with a solid life skills foundation and support services to prepare them for self-sufficiency," according to Loralyn Penzella, founder and executive director of You-Turn Project(R). "When a teen or young adult is exposed to new experiences and given the right tools, success is more likely."

You-Turn Project(R) has a simple but powerful mission: To provide comprehensive life skills instruction and support services for youth preparing to live independently. The company is a one-of-a-kind, non-profit, life skills training agency. Its program is based on eight core subject areas -- Effective Communication, Financial Planning, Food Preparation, Parenting Education, Personal Safety and Wellness, Substance Abuse Education, Time Management, and Community Exploration -- totaling over 200 hours of hands-on instruction. You-Turn Project's curriculum is based on three areas of education: problem solving, reading comprehension and critical thinking.

You-Turn Project's unique hands-on training mirrors their philosophy: student involvement leads to comprehension and learning. The curriculum meets the State Content Standards for California Public Schools and graduation credit may be available for high school students. Program alumni are eligible for up to two years of additional mentor support when making the final transition into independence.

"At-risk youth often revert to old behavior when other options are believed to be unattainable or unknown," said Ms. Penzella. "We want to empower today's youth with options and provide a safe venue to learn the tools necessary to live independently. Many will be forced to live independently at some point in their life. The You-Turn Project(R) helps them to be ready to face that challenge." To learn more about You-Turn Project's programs, and to find out more about Graduation Credit for High School students, please visit www.youturnproject.org or call 310.644.9500.