Alexander Youth Network

02/27/2026

Check out our February eNews at the link below!

https://www.alexanderyouthnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/February-2026-eNews.pdf

This month we're sharing about our need for male volunteers to serve as Lunch Buddies. If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference in a child's life, please reach out to Ashley Nieves at anieves@aynkids.org for more information! We are also honored to spotlight one of our amazing corporate sponsors, Alexander Ricks PLLC.

02/27/2026

Today we’re celebrating some big milestones.

Sabre Watkins, 4 years
Christopher Willis, 5 years
Michael Sims, 9 years

That is 18 years of experience, growth, and steady commitment combined. Eighteen years of showing up, building relationships, navigating change, supporting teammates, and strengthening the workday by day.

Work anniversaries matter because they represent more than time. They reflect trust earned, challenges worked through, and the consistent decision to give your best. Long-term team members help shape culture. They create stability. They carry a perspective that only comes from lived experience.

Taking a moment to recognize these milestones reminds us that dedication deserves to be seen.

Sabre, Christopher, and Michael, thank you for your continued commitment and the impact you make year after year.

02/26/2026

We’re honored to be featured by WCNC Charlotte in a story that truly captures the heart of our work.

Thirteen years ago, Brooks Shelley adopted his son through Alexander Youth Network. Today, he has come full circle and now serves as our Director of Development for Alexander Children's Foundation, helping other families experience the same hope and support he once received.

As shared in the feature, Brooks Shelley’s journey is a powerful reminder that the impact of this work does not end at placement. It continues through relationships, community, and a commitment to walking alongside families long after the first chapter begins.

Stories like this are why we do what we do.

Read the full story here:
https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/local/full-circle-moment-adoptive-father-returns-to-alexander-youth-network-to-help-other-families/275-c26efa37-b29e-4b27-80c2-12555b5136f2

02/26/2026

13 years after adopting his son through the nonprofit, Brooks Shelley now serves as its director of development.

02/24/2026

💚 Launch Your Career in Mental Health – Join Our Internship Program! 💚

Alexander Youth Network offers hands-on internship opportunities in a variety of fields, including:
• Counseling
• Social Work
• Recreational Therapy
• Case Management
• Behavioral Health Support

Gain real-world experience, work alongside passionate professionals, and make a meaningful impact on children and families.

📅 Summer 2026 session applications are open now! Deadline: April 1st.
📩 Apply today and take the first step toward a rewarding career: https://lnkd.in/eCqdJmtM

02/23/2026

Greensboro, we’re growing 💚

Welcoming new team members is always exciting, especially when the work directly supports children and families who need consistency, care, and strong leadership.

Please join us in welcoming:

◽Yolanda Smith - Registered Nurse
◽Joshua Davis - Behavioral Health Counselor
◽Adrian Quarles - Behavioral Health Counselor
◽Randolph Mack - Mental Health Counselor Floater
◽Terri Young - Program Manager
◽Karl Wells - IIH Coordinator

Each of these professionals brings heart and a commitment to making a difference. Their roles strengthen the support system around the children and families we serve.

If you are passionate about behavioral health, leadership, or direct care and want to be part of meaningful work in Greensboro, we would love to connect with you.

Visit our careers page, explore open roles, and consider joining a team where your work truly matters. https://www.alexanderyouthnetwork.org/careers/

02/23/2026

02/20/2026

Last week, leaders across our PRTF, Transition House, and Day Treatment programs in Mecklenburg County came together for a focused Model of Care strategy session.

The session was led by Marshand Hager and Lakeitha Gaston, who guided the team through a thoughtful SWOT analysis centered on our Model of Care and the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics.

Together, we took an honest look at where we are, where we want to be, and what it will take over the next 12 months to strengthen positive human interactions, routine and structure, and targeted activities across programs.

Thank you to Dr. Malisa Shuler, Madison Powell, Demestrius Williams, Niquita Cannon, Christopher Willis, Helen Mantis, and the entire team for your insight, honesty, and commitment to growth.

Strong programs are built through intentional reflection, collaboration, and a shared vision for better outcomes for children and families.

02/19/2026

Some moments deserve more than a quick congratulations.

Zechariah Thomas became a newly licensed foster parent on 11.13.25

Behind that date is a decision that changes lives.

Becoming a foster parent requires courage. It means opening your home to a child who may be navigating fear, uncertainty, and loss. It means choosing patience on the hard days and showing up with love when trust has to be rebuilt slowly. It is not easy work, but it is life-changing work.

Children in foster care are not looking for perfection. They are looking for stability. For safety. For someone who stays.

Zechariah chose to be that someone.

If you have ever felt that quiet nudge to make a difference, this could be your moment. Our next foster parent training class runs from March 9, 2026, through April 16, 2026.

Take the first step. Ask the questions. Start the process. One decision can create a safe place for a child who needs it most. https://www.alexanderyouthnetwork.org/how-to-become-a-foster-parent-nc/

02/17/2026

We’re excited to share that therapeutic drumming is officially back with our kiddos.🪘

This practice creates space for expression, connection, and emotional regulation in a way that feels engaging and empowering for youth. Through rhythm, they build confidence, teamwork, and healthy coping skills.

Our staff leaders had the opportunity to experience it firsthand. When our team leans in and learns the impact themselves, it strengthens how we show up for the children we serve.

More rhythm. More connection. More healing. 💚

02/16/2026

Alexander Youth Network is participating in Birdies for Better! ️⛳️

Birdies for Better is a program that invites local nonprofits to leverage the excitement of the Truist Championship to raise funds for their organization. Support Alexander Youth Network by making a minimum donation of $20 and guess how many birdies will be made during the 2026 Truist Championship!

The individual who who guesses closest to the total number of birdies will have the chance to win a one-year Audi Q5 lease or $10,000! Or, you can choose the $10,000 be directed to the charity of your choice.

For more information on how to participate, email Kaitlyn Dixon a kcoppadge@aynkids.org.