Youth Development Company/PAL

Mission: To empower youth for success and developing dreams while providing a safe haven for youth to grow socially, emotionally, and intellectually.

South Haven Area Youth Development (SHAYD) was founded in 2005 and offered a low-cost after-school program to families and included over 200 youth, spanning from 4th to 12th grade. In 2009, we began serving dinner and a snack to after-school program participants every night, providing more than 10,000 meals in the first year. The fusion of these two organizations in 2010, established the Youth Development Company/PAL (YDC). Our newly developed organization, with combined resources, provides us the position it needs to pursue broader resources and continuously support the mission of the organization. In 2011, Youth Development Company/PAL achieved State of Michigan Licensing for non-school aged and school-aged child care, allowing state-funded reimbursement for approved parents.

Youth Development Company (YDC) Learning Centers provide a nurturing environment for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, using evidence-based curriculum, customized lesson plans, and regular third-party evaluations to ensure quality care and education. The centers emphasize learning through play and uphold the highest standards of care, guided by the moral character and professional development of their staff. Continuous improvement is driven by formal observation, customer satisfaction, and parent feedback.

YDC’s Summer Day Camp has over 23 years of experience offering a safe, fun, and educational environment for school-age children. The program bridges educational gaps during the summer through STEAM-focused activities, social literacy, math skill development, and creative exploration. This six-week, themed camp is made affordable for all families through community collaborations and partnerships with schools and businesses.

Since 2010, YDC/PAL has partnered with the National Police Athletic/Activities League (PAL) Mentoring program, funded by the U.S. Department of Juvenile Justice. This initiative strengthens youth relationships with caring adults, promotes community engagement, and supports academic achievement. PAL Mentoring offers diverse programs, including athletics, character development, outdoor activities, and the arts, fostering trust, respect, and lasting connections with mentors.