Youth development institute Reviews

1st time I had the opp to Substitute teach at YDI. It was a WONDERFUL experience, so much so that I turned back some already accepted assignments at other schools to continue helping to mentor these very respectful young men and ladies for the next three weeks..
I really see a strong commitment from admin and staff who work as a family to help these young adults. It was a pleasure to hear some of the students thanking me for making their class experience interesting and motivating.
Students - THE BEST IS YET TO COME!

This place gives so many opportunities and helps kids to become a lot stronger and helps give light in many people's lives. My time here made me into the person I am and helped me find that you can change your entire life. I am so grateful for all Trish and Dave have done to help the kids and make you feel like you have a home.

Was a teen here they force you to take polygraphs and when you fail say that you haven't learned anything and then send you back to jail. They don't provide proper schooling treatment and food. They take money from the courts to keep you but once that money runs out they don't want you no more. The only reason i am giving it 2 stars is because of the staff that worked with me on a daily basis. I had severe anger problems and i didn't allow most people to help me but they provided staff that were willing to help me and that i actually got along with

Not a safe environment. dishonest management. poorly trained staff. kids AWOL consistently.

My son went to YDI December 2019 and successfully discharged August 2020. During that time, my son learned how to complete a Rubik cube with his eyes closed in under two minutes. Did not learn any life skills ie how to interview for jobs, life coping skills etc. I do not recommend YDI as I had issue after issue from day one. There is no communication between staff and the parent. I had to constantly be on them for any information.

I was a bit iffy when my son was placed at YDI. We had heard good and bad reviews not to mention his attorney said it was not a good place. I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised at how caring the staff was. They truly do connect with the kids and show genuine concern for them. The therapists are supportive but firm with their expectations. YDI has been a turning point for not just my son but his whole support system.

This place is life changing, positive, and just amazing. The staff is so amazing. The therapy is great and it really helps. They are there for us and listens. They love us and care for us. I love this place so much. Trish and Dave has done so much for me and the other clients that it can not be repaid. Thank you YDI you saved my life!!!!!

This place is basically a prison. if your child gets sent here please don't hesitate to contact me via Badass Mom or @juvjusticeAZ on Twitter. The brainwashing that occurs to both children and their parents is heartbreaking and detrimental . Please take care to shield your child from this place and the terrible things this will do to your child's self esteem and sense of reality. Please know that polygraphs are completely unreliable even though they will tell you differently. They should not be using them, but that is how they keep kids there, and how they increase their restrictions. More restrictions means more money in their pocket. They are masters of their game, which is a game of shame, finger pointing, threats, and deceit. Please don't let your child believe that they are the filth that this place will tell them they are. The harm that they do to children is a burden that child will carry for life, do what you can to minimize that burden by being stronger than their games. Please don't hesitate to contact me as well.

when i was there from 2016 -2018 i built a lot of relationships with the staff. the schooling could have been better but when i was there nearly 65% of the kids got their GED.i appreciated the staff and the teachers that helped me out

Life changing place, loving people, a safe place to learn, and a truly unforgettable experience. Trish and Dave make an effort to show they truly care for their children and have done their absolute best to make it as close to a family setting as possible. Five stars for this place.