Youth
Youth-focused services are in demand in Kenya, as over 59% are younger than 24 years old. Limited access to safe spaces, life skills, and accurate health information increases vulnerability to poor outcomes. Mental health challenges among youth are rising, with limited access to youth-friendly services, while persistent stigma continues. Globally, 10–20% of adolescents experience mental health conditions, many of which go untreated. Adolescents also face significant reproductive health risks, with 1 out of 6 girls between the ages of 15 and 19 is pregnant or is already a mother. Youth also account for a significant proportion of new HIV infections (40-50%).
To combat these Kenya youth trends, we provide youth-friendly health services and livelihood support, as well as offer additional youth services.
Youth Center
30,165 Youth Center visits since 2019
We have a Youth Center in Chogoria open every day of the week. This provides a safe haven for the youth away from ills associated with the age such as drugs and crime. As part of youth empowerment, a Youth Center Coordinator shares career resources and job opportunities. To attract youth at the Center, we have free internet access, television entertainment, and games. Additionally, this Center allows youth to meet and interact if they are not in school.
Youth at the Center receive mental health and psychosocial support through safe spaces, counselling, and peer support.
Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH)
232,343 (total visits) Youth educated on sexual and reproductive health topics since 2018
Contraceptives are offered through both our Youth Center and our Clinic. Regular sexual and reproductive health education is given and information pamphlets and educational resources on SRH are available, including HIV prevention and life skills training.
HopeCore has trained with local health facilities to help increase the number of facilities offering youth-friendly services. Additionally, HopeCore has convened church leaders' and teachers’ meetings to educate them on SRH information to support youth. In addition, youth take part in card games and roundtable discussions focusing on relationships, mental health, and stress management. Counseling services are also provided. We recognize the need to impart skills to youth that are important in their personal development and make them stand out in the job market.
Computer Packages Training
Providing invaluable opportunities
The HopeCore Youth Center provides invaluable opportunities for young people by offering monthly computer training at an affordable cost. HopeCore has trained 302 youth since program inception. This training helps enhance their skills and confidence, setting them apart in a competitive job market. In addition to technical skills, the program also fosters personal growth, teamwork, and leadership. Participants are equipped with essential digital literacy that opens doors to better employment opportunities and further educational pursuits. After completion of the course, they receive certification on graduation.
Along with computer training, youth capacity-building programs are also available, including skill development (e.g., crochet classes), training (e.g., YPP training), and recreational activities (e.g., excursions).
Youth Projects
Youth account for 25% of HopeCore Micro Enterprise Program's direct beneficiaries. Over the years, the program has supported several major youth-focused initiatives, empowering them with financial opportunities to invest in sustainable enterprises! Beyond financial support, the program also emphasizes capacity-building. Since 2019, a total of 831 youth have benefited from Street Business School (SBS) training, equipping them with entrepreneurial skills to navigate and thrive in the business world.