GYST Youth RiseRestoring Lives, Rebuilding Futures, and Creating Pathways to Lasting Independence.
VISION
To create communities where every individual, regardless of their past or life circumstances, has the opportunity to heal, grow, and build a future defined by purpose, dignity, and lasting independence.
MISSION
GYST Youth Rise exists to provide safe housing, education, life skills, mental health support, employment readiness, and community connections that empower individuals transitioning from vulnerable life circumstances to achieve stability, self-sufficiency, and lifelong success.
Rise Strong. Live Free.
How We Can Help
We prepare individuals before they leave foster care, juvenile placement, or incarceration so they can build a stable, independent life.
Housing
Housing readiness, tenant expectations, and household responsibilities.
Mental Health
Healthy coping, emotional regulation, and connecting to ongoing support.
Education
High school, GED, technical training, certifications, and college pathways.
Employment
Career exploration, résumés, interviewing, and workplace communication.
Life Skills
Budgeting, banking, credit, transportation, scheduling, and decision-making.
Relationships
Healthy boundaries, communication, conflict resolution, and family connections.
Our Team
Meet Our Founders
Three women who learned to navigate life side by side — and built GYST so no one else has to figure it out alone.
Founder & CEO
Glennis Taveras
Building the bridge before people reach the door of adulthood, a facility, or home.
Co-Founder & CFO
Yris Rivera
From the projects of Brooklyn to creating a safe place where young people can thrive.
Program Director
Sonya Guthrie
Helping young adults build confidence, life skills, and a support system of their own.
Upcoming Events
Community nights, workshops, and opportunities to connect.
Community Resource Night
Connect with local partners and learn about housing, employment, and wellness resources.
Life Skills Workshop
Budgeting, banking, and building a realistic financial plan for independence.
Mentor Training
Learn how to walk alongside someone transitioning from foster care or incarceration.
