About Us

51 Years of Mentoring Indian River County Children

Youth Guidance has provided positive adult role models for children with limited resources in Indian River County since 1973. Our founder, Rita Dion, led Youth Guidance for more than three decades before retiring.

Rita and the staff and volunteers following in her footsteps have shown tremendous dedication to the well-being of local children.

Their incredible passion is evidenced by our many success stories.

A Grass Roots Movement

To facilitate the Pre-Apprenticeship, Youth Guidance partners with the Indian River County School District, Treasure Coast Technical College, and Florida Training Services, which has 40 years of experience implementing registered pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships across the state.

Once students complete the Youth Guidance Pre-Apprenticeship, they have several options. If they wish to further their education in a particular trade, we help them to apply for Indian River State College or Treasure Coast Technical College. If their goal is to enter the workforce, we partner with local employers in the trades to provide them with job opportunities.

He is now a prominent lawyer in Vero Beach with his own firm. Brian’s story goes full-circle. He and his wife, Laurie, now mentor two Youth Guidance students.

Brian is one of thousands of individuals whose lives have been forever changed by Youth Guidance.

Brian Connelly and his mentee, Kyle

Providing a Path to a Brighter Future

Youth Guidance has provided positive adult role models for children with limited
resources in Indian River County since 1973. Our founder, Rita Dion, led Youth
Guidance for more than three decades before retiring.

All services and meals are provided free of charge.

Our goals are to help Indian River County youth overcome life’s challenges, secure meaningful careers, and grow up to have a positive impact on the community.