Getting Ahead in Wichita

At Youth Horizons, we believe every person deserves a pathway to stability, hope, and a brighter future. So we launched the Getting Ahead program – a community-driven program out of BridgesICT (HopeNet) – designed to help individuals and families break the cycle of poverty and build long-term stability.

Getting Ahead was started to answer a simple but urgent question: What would it look like if our neighbors had the tools, relationships, and confidence to move from “just getting by” to truly getting ahead? Participants work in small groups, guided by facilitators, to identify barriers, build practical skills, and create personalized plans for success.

The benefits go far beyond finances. Getting Ahead offers participants a safe space to discover their strengths, set achievable goals, and connect with a network of support. Each graduate leaves with not only a clearer vision of their future, but also the confidence and community to pursue it.

For Youth Horizons, offering Getting Ahead is a natural extension of our mission. Just as we mentor and invest in youth, we also strengthen families – because when parents and caregivers thrive, kids thrive too. By providing this program, we’re helping to build resilient homes, stronger neighborhoods, and a healthier Wichita for generations to come.

● Program Overview: The 16-week Youth Horizons Getting Ahead Program began in August and runs through November – with participants (“investigators”) exploring barriers to stability and growth for their families.

● Enrollment: We currently have 14 families and over 30 children participating in the program.

● The general workshop is based on the book Bridges Out of Poverty, by Payne, DeVol, and Dreussi-Smith.

Join us in active prayer and preparation for the families that will be impacted through this initiative.

And watch for another post that gives gratitude to the multitude of churches and organizations that have committed to providing the food and nourishment throughout the 16-week program. Their generosity has met a very real need. The children have been very hungry and look forward to dinner each week – and a few take-away meals when available.

If your church has resources or people to connect, let’s talk. We do not lack the volunteer opportunities!