Mission

“Our mission is to walk alongside parents and community stakeholders in educating and influencing youth to make good choices that positively impact their future. As a result, youth become more confident and productive members of society and lead more rewarding lives. We accomplish this through enrichment and empowerment programs, community service and counseling.”

PAY has been providing positive alternatives for youth in the San Fernando Valley for over forty years. Formerly knows as Bridge Focus, the agency is the product of a 1989 union of Bridge: A Way Across, incorporated in 1970, and Focus Center for Education & Development, incorporated in 1977.

Building on our predecessors’ 31 years of combined experience, we have developed a comprehensive spectrum of ATOD (Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs) prevention, early intervention and recovery services for children, youth, adults and families.

In an ongoing effort to improve our current services and address the changing needs of young people, the effectiveness of our programs are regularly evaluated as new programs are developed and implemented.

Our programs include: Individual & Family Counseling; Alcohol & Drug Prevention, which encompasses three youth groups; Project Reachout, which assists homeless & runaway youth with medical referral and counseling services; and GOALmodels, a school-based interactive speaking program to motivate youth to have and achieve goals through positive lifestyle behaviors.

At PAY, we pride ourselves on our collaboration with community organizations and schools in efforts to expand and enhance resources and programs to meet the ever growing demand. Positive Alternatives for Youth serves approximately 11,000 residents and collaborates with over 40 community agencies and schools throughout the San Fernando Valley.