Directions for Youth & Families

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Columbus, OH
Directions for Youth & Families

Improving lives of individuals, families, and communities through counseling, education, and support.
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--Directions for Youth & Families is a private, not-for-profit organization with a history of over 110 years of service to youth and families in central Ohio. Directions’ staff annually serve more than 7,500 children and their families in 20 different programs.

--Programs provide individual, group and family counseling, prevention education, and support services. Services are provided in homes, s

chools, community centers and offices.

--Schools, juvenile court, parents, hospitals, social service agencies, churches, businesses, and concerned community members make referrals to the programs. Some services have a sliding scale fee, and some are without cost to clients.

--All programs are outcome based, have specific objectives, and are monitored for quality.

--Crisis support services for current clients are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

09/17/2024

This Wednesday, September 18th, from 6 PM to 8 PM, our Crittenton Community Center and Ohio Avenue Youth Center will serve as voter registration hubs! Whether you’re a first-time voter or just need a quick update, we’re here to help! Your vote matters, and your voice is powerful.

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09/11/2024

Directions for Youth & Families and Marker, Inc. would like to thank Columbus Business First for recognizing the DFYF Crittenton Community Center with the 2024 Building Columbus Best Community Impact Award! Marker's commitment to excellence on meaningful projects and DFYF's commitment to improving the lives of individuals, families and communities made this project that much more impactful. Celebrating great work together and lives changed as a result of this project!

To see the full video, visit DFYF on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/

09/04/2024

Our youth harvesting an abundance of fresh herbs and produce from the community garden! 🌱🥬🍅 They’re not just growing food—they’re growing community spirit by sharing their harvest with neighbors! 🥕🌿

08/20/2024

Get ready for a sharp start to the school year!✏️🍎Deja’s team has a sweet surprise for their South-Western City Schools clients: pencil-shaped goodie bags! We are wishing our students a warm welcome back!

08/18/2024

With school just around the corner, we're reflecting on the amazing memories made during DFYF’s 2024 summer programming! This summer was filled with smiles, laughter, and unforgettable moments—truly a summer to remember! Don't worry, programming begins August 21st for our after-school youth!

08/15/2024

During the final week of summer programming, our youth took on new heights—literally! ZipZone brought our youth pure excitement and thrills. They faced their fears, zipped through the trees, and created unforgettable memories together!

Parker Lee Foundation The Columbus Foundation ADAMH Board of Franklin County
United Way of Central Ohio Osteopathic Heritage Foundations Franklin County Children Services Besa Ohio Arts Council Mental Health America of Ohio

08/14/2024

The 2024 The African American Male Wellness Agency Day was incredible this past weekend! We’re thrilled to be part of this impactful initiative supporting the mental wellness of African American males in our communities. Together, we're making a difference!

08/10/2024

Join us today at the DFYF booth at the The African American Male Wellness Agency wellness walk in Livingston Park to learn more about the services provided by our organization and pick up a free DFYF sticker and wristband (while supplies last). We can't wait to see everyone and be part of this wonderful event!

08/09/2024

🏅 Team USA, we’ve got some fierce new contenders coming your way! Ohio Avenue Youth Center recently held their own mini-Olympics, and our young athletes were unstoppable! Instead of the usual sprints and backflips, they showcased their skills in some truly unique events like cup stacking and candy hunting in a bowl of whipped cream! 🍬 Watch out, 2028 Los Angeles Olympics! Our future champions are already in training.

08/07/2024

Join us this Saturday, August 10 at Livingston Park for the The African American Male Wellness Agency Wellness Walk! Stop by our booth for some free giveaways. We're thrilled to be among many organizations dedicated to supporting and encouraging the wellbeing of African American men. Don’t miss out!

08/05/2024

Exciting news! The Columbus Dispatch recently featured the amazing transformation of the former Kroger on Refugee Road into a social services hub, thanks to Mid-Ohio Food Collective! We are so proud to share that some our talented youth played a key role in this project through the summer CoLab program hosted by the Neighborhood Design Center 🎨 Our youth helped ideate and implement the designs of this space, contributing their creativity and hard work to this project. From the colorful rainbow path to Ohio native plants, their creativity and hard work have truly brought this space to life. 🌈🌱 Check out the article to see the stunning imagery of their contributions to this project and celebrate their achievements!

https://www.dispatch.com/picture-gallery/news/2024/07/29/mid-ohio-food-collective-turning-former-kroger-into-social-service-hub/74586118007/

The Mid-Ohio Food Collective hosts a monthly pop-up food pantry as it works to renovate the former Refugee Road Kroger into a social services hub.

08/01/2024

We are incredibly grateful for the hard work and dedication of our mental health professionalss, who provide personalized and intentional care for each client. One of our clients recently shared their heartfelt experience:

"Rich has been absolutely wonderful with both of my boys! He is open, kind, and always puts their needs first. My boys love him, and I couldn't ask for a better counselor. He has truly made a difference for our family. I highly recommend him to everyone!"
Thank you, Rich, for your commitment to our clients. Your impact is truly appreciated! 💙

07/25/2024

🎉 Exciting News! Six of our amazing youth have been accepted into the Youth CoLab Internship with the Columbus Neighborhood Design Center! Over 6 weeks, they are diving into architecture, landscaping, muralism, and design. By the end of the summer, they will design and implement their project for the Mid-Ohio Foodbank and COTA at Refugee and Hamilton Road in the Eastland community. Stay tuned to our Youtube channel for an upcoming video showcasing their creative adventures with this wonderful program!

Blockfort

07/24/2024

At Directions for Youth and Families, our devoted mental health professionals are embedded in schools through our School Connections Program. Located in Worthington, Southwestern City, and Columbus City Schools (, , South-Western City Schools), this program makes counseling more accessible by removing the barrier of transportation. Check out this heartfelt response about our amazing School Connections Program! ❤️

“Mark H. and Nicole T. are FANTASTIC! We LOVE having them at FHHS. They work so well with our students, staff and families! Both are professional and knowledgeable about working with adolescents. They truly are an asset to FHHS. Both clinicians are professional and knowledgeable about working with adolescence. They truly are an asset to FHHS”

07/22/2024

The competition was fierce last week for the first annual Crittenton Community Center Cook Off!🔥 Our brilliant youth formed two teams, each preparing and serving a delicious entrée, side dishes and dessert. By the narrowest of margins, Team Ms. Samara defetaed Team Mr. Jose but in the end, everyone was a winner (especially the judges who sampled the savory treats!) Summer fun, friendly competition, and good food—our youth are making the most of it!

07/19/2024

July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month! As an organization we have two youth community centers that proudly serve over 200 youth, with 98% percent being minority youth! We are dedicated to encouraging our youth to engage in their passions. 🎨🎶💪 From music, art, fitness, life skills, entrepreneurship and more, we offer diverse programs to foster their interest!

07/18/2024

Thank you Dewey's Pizza for your donation to Directions for Youth and Families! Your continuous support helps uplift African American youth in our community. We appreciate our incredible partnership! 🍕

07/11/2024

A huge thank you to Didomi, a community redistribution partner, for their generous donation of STEM toys! These incredible gifts will be utilized by our youth and families and dispersed throughout the Columbus community. A special thank you to the The Ohio State University Early Head Start Education Team for helping to unload all the toys. All of your support helps us inspire and empower the next generation. Together, we're making a difference! 💙

07/05/2024

It was all smiles on Field Trip Friday at SportsOhio! Our youth hit the basketball courts, dominated in kickball, took to the pitch in soccer, and brought some tough competition in dodgeball. It was loads of fun, and we are thankful for the support of our generous donors, without which we couldn't provide these opportunites for the youth at our centers.🏀⚽️

06/28/2024

It's Flashback Friday! Flashback to State of the Child and the original spoken word poetry by our talented youth at the Crittenton Community Center! They dive deep into the contrasting ways boys and girls are treated when faced with mental health challenges. Don't miss out on this powerful performance! 🎤 Watch the full video on YouTube now: https://youtu.be/g8JvihLj_AY

06/27/2024

We are honored to serve the families of the Eastland Community and want to thank Columbus Planning for this recognition. ❤️❤️

06/24/2024

We are beyond excited to announce that our video, "Full Circle: Miles' Journey with Directions for Youth and Families," has been nominated by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences - Ohio Valley for an Emmy! This emotional story follows a young man as he transforms from the darkest point in his life to the happiest, he’s ever been. Watch the full video on YouTube (https://youtu.be/sUAX4FW_FnM?si=vgXxQizxQLNW1I6j) and be inspired by Miles' incredible journey!

06/21/2024

Look out Columbus Blue Jackets, there were some new prospects on the ice last week at the Chiller Ice Rinks! Our summer programming youth from The Crittenton Community Center spent last week’s field trip Friday, beating the heat by showing off their skate skills inside Nationwide Arena. Some were more successful than others.
Stay tuned to our social media channels for more summertime activities with our youth.

06/20/2024

We were thrilled to have WAV - We Amplify Voices host an open mic at our Crittenton Center Amphitheater earlier this week! From freestyle rap to an engaging drum circle, it was a blast—our youth even got to hop on the drums! 🥁
Don’t miss out on the fun! Join us every Tuesday at 3840 Kimberly Parkway North, from 3 PM to 5 PM, open to the public. See you on June 25th!

06/19/2024

Today, we celebrate Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in history that marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. At DFYF, we honor and recognize the significance of this holiday. This is what Juneteenth means to our staff! Share with us what Juneteenth means to you below!

06/17/2024

Join DFYF and this Tuesday, June 18 from 3-5pm at the Crittenton Community Center for the first in our summer series of workshops focusing on authentic conversation, creative expression, and connecting residents to local mental health resources .

06/17/2024

Join DFYF and WAV - We Amplify Voices this Tuesday June 18th from 3-5pm at the Crittenton Community Center at 3840 Kimberly Parkway North for a workshop focused on authentic conversation, creative expression, and connecting residents to local mental health resources.

Pop in to the weekly Pop Up / Speak Up Community Open Mics at Directions for Youth & Family Services this summer as part of our tour of the city creating safe spaces for creative expression, starting authentic conversations, and connecting residents to local mental health resources.

06/14/2024

We are thrilled to announce that See Kids Dream is merging with Directions for Youth and Families! This partnership will extend our reach and deepen our impact, bringing innovative solutions to more families and youth across Central Ohio. Check out the full press release here www.dfyf.org

06/13/2024

Welcome to the family See Kids Dream!!! We are thrilled to be under the same umbrella 🙂🌂

06/11/2024

This Juneteenth, celebrate with Dewey’s Pizza and make a difference! On Tuesday, June 18th, Dewey's Pizza is donating 10% of sales to Directions for Youth and Families, along with 5 other local organizations dedicated to uplifting Black youth. Join us at your local Dewey’s Pizza location, enjoy some delicious pizza, while raising some ‘dough’ for our communities! Share this with your friends and family—the more, the merrier! 🍕

Address

1515 Indianola Avenue
Columbus, OH
43201

Website

http://www.dfyf.org/

Alerts

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Videos

@directionsforyouthfamilies and @buildwithmarker would like to thank @columbusbiz1st for recognizing the DFYF Crittenton Community Center with the 2024 Building Columbus Best Community Impact Award! Marker’s commitment to excellence on meaningful projects and DFYF’s commitment to improving the lives of individuals, families and communities made this project that much more impactful. Celebrating great work together and lives changed as a result of this project! #communitysupport #bettertogether #buildwithmarker #buildingcolumbus

2024 Building Columbus - Best Community Impact Award Winner

Directions for Youth & Families and Marker, Inc. would like to thank Columbus Business First for recognizing the DFYF Crittenton Community Center with the 2024 Building Columbus Best Community Impact Award! Marker's commitment to excellence on meaningful projects and DFYF's commitment to improving the lives of individuals, families and communities made this project that much more impactful. Celebrating great work together and lives changed as a result of this project! To see the full video, visit DFYF on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@directionsforyouthandfamil4871 #buildwithmarker #buildingcolumbus

Bloom - State of the Child 2024 Performance

DFYF School Connections Teaser

Meet Latisha, she is one of many counselors who work in our School Connections program. This program provides vital counseling services to students, focusing on mental health, behavioral health, and other individual needs within schools. By being in schools, we eliminate transportation barriers to ensure youth get the counseling they need. She and many other counselors provide an invaluable resource that positively impacts not only the students but also supports their families, staff, and the entire community. Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/S1rntRzup50?si=vtekdTof5nxLDg12 to see the impact the School Connections Program has on our community! #SchoolConnections #StudentSupport #CommunityImpact #CounselingServices #InSchoolCounseling #EducationalPartnerships

Together We Grow Teaser

At Directions for Youth and Families, we're dedicated to supporting our youth, building trust with our families, and uplifting our communities. When we all come together, we grow together! See the impact of our programming in our community through the heartwarming story of one of our remarkable youth and her family as they share their experiences with Directions over the years. Check out the full YouTube video using the link below! https://youtu.be/Mbm2oGb8nxY?si=pyEXqrJstkchMJYu To support the vital services DFYF provides to the Columbus community, you can donate at https://dfyf.org/donate-now/ #YouthEmpowerment #FamilyConnection #CommunityBuilding #TogetherWeGrow #DirectionsForYouthAndFamilies

To close out #SocialWorkMonth, we'd like to thank the incredible after-school and summer programming staff at our Ohio Avenue Center and Crittenton Community Center. What better way to do so than with messages from the youth whose lives they touch every day? Whether it's homework help, life skills, prevention, dance, music, art, or recreation, our staff goes above and beyond to provide support to the youth and families of the surrounding community. #empoweringsocialworkers #nasw #SocialWorkMonth #SWMonth2024 #youthsupport

2024 State of the Child Trailer

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE NOW FOR DIRECTIONS FOR YOUTH & FAMILIES' 2024 STATE OF THE CHILD EVENT! Support the important counseling and education programs DFYF provides in the central Ohio community by purchasing tickets for yourself or donating them to one of our parents today!. Scan the QR code or visit https://dfyf.networkforgood.com/events/68799-state-of-the-child-brunch This is a truly unique event. Watch our video to see why. #StudentTalent #communitysupport #communityevents Parker Lee Foundation The Columbus Foundation United Way of Central Ohio ADAMH Board of Franklin County Osteopathic Heritage Foundations Franklin County Children Services Nationwide Thunderwing Brewing Parsons North Brewing Company American Electric Power - AEP Cohear Java Central Cafe and Roaster Besa Ohio Arts Council Mental Health America of Ohio

Quiz Kids - Movie Titles

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, what would the title be? After the excitement of the #Oscars this past weekend, we asked our Crittenton community center after-school kids that very question. Watch below to hear what films might be nominated in the near future!

Quiz Kids - Oscar Edition

It's time for another episode of Directions for Youth & Families Quiz Kids! In honor of the Oscars this weekend, we asked our Crittenton Center after-school youth what their favorite movie is and why? Tell us your favorite movie in the comments below. #Oscars

This #thankfulThursday, we are thankful for our youth! Without them it would not be possible to do what we do. Did you know there are two major ways in which we support youth in our community? One through in-office and community-based counseling services and the other in our afterschool programming. They bring smiles to our faces and joy to our hearts. Check out our latest quiz kids and see what we are thankful for this year.

Quiz Kids - Halloween Candy

Trick or Treat! Skittles, SNICKERS, HERSHEY'S, LaffyTaffy...find out what you should be passing out this year for Halloween as we ask our after school youth what their favorite Halloween candy is.

It's Halloween weekend so it's time for a creepy, crawly episode of Quiz Kids! Find out what spooky costumes our after school youth come up with this year. We also want to know what will you be dressing up as for Halloween? Post pictures of your costumes in comments.

Quiz Kids - Back 2 School Edition

With another year of school about to start, we thought it was the perfect time for another episode of Directions for Youth & Families Quiz Kids - Back to school edition!

DFYF Quiz Kids - Superpowers Edition

At DFYF, we believe that all of our kids already have super powers. However, with Comic-Con International coming to a close today, we asked our after-school youth what super power they would like to have. #comiccon2023 #marvelcomics #dccomics

Quiz Kids - Superhero Edition

Comic-Con International got underway today in San Diego, so we thought it was the perfect time to ask our summer programming youth who their favorite superhero is in our next edition of Directions for Youth & Families Quiz Kids. Who is your favorite superhero? Post your answer in the comments. #comiccon2023 #comiccon #marvel #dccomics

Another Star performed by Ohio Ave. & Crittenton Center Bands

Our Ohio Avenue and Crittenton Center bands are full of stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Watch this performance of "Another Star", performed by both bands at State of the Child last week. If you would like to consider a donation, please visit www.qtego.net/4kids or text 4KIDS to 463-252-2700.

What is Love by Corey

What is love? Corey, a sixteen year old performer at this year's State of the Child event, asked this question in his self-penned poem of the same name. Watch his performance here.

Full Circle: Miles Journey

5 years ago, after calling the suicide hotline. a young man went from the darkest point in his life to the happiest he’s ever been. Featured at this year's State of the Child event, this video takes you on Miles' journey from counseling client of DFYF to artist, college graduate, and so much more. If you would like to consider a donation, please visit www.qtego.net/4kids or text 4KIDS to 463-252-2700 #MentalHealthMonth

People Matter

The excitement is growing for the new Crittenton Center in the Kimberly Parkway area of East Columbus. The Center will open in 2023 and will use DFYF’s Community Restoration model, a social justice approach to revitalization. This video was part of the State of the Child Event this year and in it, you will see the progress that has been made, hear the anticipation of our kids and staff, and get a sneak peak at some of the unique attributes that the center will have. If you would like to consider a donation, please visit www.qtego.net/4kids or text 4KIDS to 463-252-2700. #MentalHealthMonth

Black History Month Celebration

“It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day, it’s a new life for me, and I’m feeling good” 🖤✊🏾💪🏾 Nina Simone With 150 parents and family, nearly 85 enrolled DFYF Youth, and the support of all of our wonderful After School staff, it was a honor to present such a wonderful Black History Month program. Presenting our youth with the very best programming RIGHT HERE in the community that we serve is a great way to create more iconic, Black history. The Ohio Ave “Dancers of Integrity” brought the crowd to their feet with this incredible work choreographed by our Dance prevention specialist, Malaika Burke. We will see you at the next show !!! If you have any youth ages 8 to 17 residing in Franklin County interested in After School programming please stop by, or call us here at Ohio Avenue! Thank you, Jason Leon Moncrief After School Supervisor Directions for Youth and Families 657 South Ohio Ave Columbus OH 43205 (614) 258-8043