About Youth Breakthrough Initiative
ABOUT US
Our Story
Youth Breakthrough Initiative was founded in response to what is too often unseen.
Every day, young people are navigating challenges that impact their mental health, stability, and sense of direction. Some are facing trauma, grief, and emotional distress. Others are navigating unstable environments, unmet basic needs, family disruption, or systems that are difficult to access and even harder to trust.
And while support may exist, many young people are left trying to figure it out on their own.
Youth Breakthrough Initiative was created to change that.
We exist to ensure that young people do not have to navigate life’s most difficult moments alone, and that they have access to the guidance, resources, and support they need to move forward.
Youth Breakthrough Initiative was founded in response to what is too often unseen.
Every day, young people are navigating challenges that impact their mental health, stability, and sense of direction. Some are facing trauma, grief, and emotional distress. Others are navigating unstable environments, unmet basic needs, family disruption, or systems that are difficult to access and even harder to trust.
And while support may exist, many young people are left trying to figure it out on their own.
Youth Breakthrough Initiative was created to change that.
We exist to ensure that young people do not have to navigate life’s most difficult moments alone, and that they have access to the guidance, resources, and support they need to move forward.
What We Believe
We believe that every young person deserves to be seen, supported, and connected to the resources they need to thrive.
We believe mental health and well-being cannot be separated from lived experience.
We believe support should be:
And we believe that no young person should have to navigate crisis, instability, or emotional hardship alone.
We believe mental health and well-being cannot be separated from lived experience.
We believe support should be:
- accessible
- trusted
- compassionate
- community-rooted
- responsive to real life
And we believe that no young person should have to navigate crisis, instability, or emotional hardship alone.
How We Show Up
We serve as a bridge between young people and the systems, services, and opportunities that can help them move forward.
Our work includes:
Our work includes:
- Resource AccessConnecting youth and young adults to trusted resources, services, and pathways to support
- Wellness SupportExpanding access to mental health, wellness, and community-based care
- Safe SpacesCreating safe, supportive spaces for connection, engagement, and belonging
- Advocacy & GuidanceProviding guidance, advocacy, and partnerships that help young people navigate real-life challenges
Meet Our Executive Director
Charmaine Graham
Executive Director, Youth Breakthrough Initiative
Charmaine Graham is a passionate community advocate committed to helping youth and young adults access the support, resources, and trusted connection they need to navigate life’s challenges.
Her work is grounded in compassion, action, and a deep belief that no young person should have to navigate instability, crisis, or emotional hardship alone.
Known for her ability to build trust across communities and connect with young people from all walks of life, Charmaine has supported individuals in accessing critical resources, navigating complex systems, and moving toward greater stability and opportunity.
She leads Youth Breakthrough Initiative with a commitment to meeting real needs, creating meaningful connections, and helping young people move forward with dignity, support, and hope.
Executive Director, Youth Breakthrough Initiative
Charmaine Graham is a passionate community advocate committed to helping youth and young adults access the support, resources, and trusted connection they need to navigate life’s challenges.
Her work is grounded in compassion, action, and a deep belief that no young person should have to navigate instability, crisis, or emotional hardship alone.
Known for her ability to build trust across communities and connect with young people from all walks of life, Charmaine has supported individuals in accessing critical resources, navigating complex systems, and moving toward greater stability and opportunity.
She leads Youth Breakthrough Initiative with a commitment to meeting real needs, creating meaningful connections, and helping young people move forward with dignity, support, and hope.
We envision a world where every young person can rise, claim their voice with courage, speak their truth without fear, and step into a life that is whole, hopeful, and free.
Youth Breakthrough Initiative is a wellness and learning organization serving youth and young adults impacted by structural and systemic inequities that disproportionately affect communities in the Bronx and contribute to health disparities.
We imagine communities where youth and young adults are uplifted, protected, and equipped to break through barriers, lead with boldness, and shape a future worthy of their brilliance.
We imagine communities where youth and young adults are uplifted, protected, and equipped to break through barriers, lead with boldness, and shape a future worthy of their brilliance.
Your support helps us reach the young people who need it most.
Too many youth and young adults are navigating trauma, instability, emotional distress, and unmet needs without consistent support.
Your generosity helps Youth Breakthrough Initiative expand access to trusted guidance, community connection, and youth-centered support that can make a real difference.
Your generosity helps Youth Breakthrough Initiative expand access to trusted guidance, community connection, and youth-centered support that can make a real difference.
Connect With Us
We enjoy talking to our clients and sharing useful content. Follow us on social media and be happy!
Email us: info@youthbreakthrough.org