Godparents Youth Organization

She and fellow school bus drivers witnessed daily the disconnect many of their riders had from school and community. Realizing that the bonds they formed with their passengers could be used to change their lives, they dedicated themselves to making a difference in the lives of the youth who seldom went beyond the troubled neighborhoods where they l... ived. Initially using short weekend trips as incentives to raise the bar in academic achievement, the drivers began to lengthen the trips and demand to not only academic improvement, but increased individual responsibility. The mentoring, encouragement, and exposure to a bigger world worked! The route they have driven since starting G.Y.O. has covered millions of miles and opened hundreds of eyes to a world that exists beyond some of the toughest streets of Los Angeles. A world many of these youth never knew existed. A world many of them never dreamed of seeing. Seven trips later, G.Y.O. has evolved into a unique series of programs promoting personal development, leadership, community service, and career planning. Ms. Walters and her staff of volunteers have committed to making a better future for the youth in urban America. The plan is to place inner city youth on the "Road to Success" by bringing together parents, teachers, local businesses, civic officials, members of the clergy and religious organizations to work together for the improvement of the lives of children who lack essential resources. In addition to the exposure provided by travel, a blueprint must be established to keep our kids on the right track. "We let our youth know that they are not alone, and that if no one else, Godparents Youth Organization is here to see them through. The staff and mentors of GYO are bridging the social and educational gaps in the inner City, "One Bus Load at a time." GYO is committed to transforming hopelessness into hope while giving urban youth the exposure needed to compete in society. Travel "Men-Touring" provides youth the opportunity to tour historical landmarks, ...Read More