Helping Central Texas youth reach their goals for over 30 years.
We make goals a reality.
Youth Connection’s mission is to facilitate the development of self-worth, educational attainment and positive life choices in youth from all walks of life to enable them to lead their lives to the fullest potential.
Youth Connection was established in 1988 to help lower the high rate of teen pregnancy in McLennan County through real-life experiences and education. Our roots can be traced back to a 1981 McLennan County Community Needs Assessment published by Baylor University which illuminated the high teen pregnancy rate in the area. Over the past 33 years, Youth Connection has taken steps to address this need by implementing programs that build youths’ skills in interpersonal communication, leadership, and decision-making; and offer services that provide guidance and knowledge to help the youth of McLennan County make wise life choices around teen parenthood.
Despite our small team of staff, board members, and volunteers, Youth Connection plays a vital role in the lives of many McLennan County teens. Several volunteers and board members were teen mothers or children of teen mothers. Their life experiences help mold our direction and approach to working with the youth.
Meet Youth Connection’s Executive Director:
Youth Connection has one staff member, Mrs. Carolyn Nichols, that has led Youth Connection for 30 years. Prior to this non-profit work, she served as Division Director for March of Dimes. Mrs. Nichols has been recognized and has received numerous awards for her work from American Business Women Association and YWCA. Carolyn has served on many committees and advisory boards.
Pictured from left to right: Robert Corley, Terri Corley, Tammie Bowman, Michele Shockey, Jennifer Cervantez, Rudy Garza, Rachel Cooper, and Vickie Rodriguez.
Not pictured: Kiesha Norwood
Meet Youth Connection’s Board of Directors:
Youth' Connections Board is constantly growing, and we welcome new members. If you are interested in joining please contact Ms. Nichols via email at wacotx.youthconnection@gmail.com