About Us

Founded in 1986, Youth On Their Own (YOTO) is a local, grassroots organization in Pima County, Arizona. Our mission is to support the high school graduation and continued success of youth experiencing homelessness. We are the only organization of our kind in the country.

YOTO serves Pima County youth who are: (1) Living on their own and not under the care of a parent or legal guardian; (2) Enrolled in middle or high school; and (3) Experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

Youth experiencing homelessness face significant barriers to educational success. YOTO reduces these barriers in three principal ways:
1) Financial Incentive: Youth earn a monthly financial stipend tied to their school attendance. This evidence-based academic stipend helps meet daily needs and provides an incentive for youth to stay enrolled and attend school, rather than drop out to work.
2) Basic Needs Support: YOTO’s onsite Mini Mall and online Student Portal provide free access to basic needs supplies, like food and hygiene items, as well as transportation and technology.
3) Motivational Guidance: YOTO offers one-on-one guidance, academic encouragement, and referrals to community partners for healthcare, housing, and more.