Directions for Our Youth works in the most troubled schools, in the most distressed neighborhoods to help those students most in need. Our goal is to provide leadership and inspiration through workshops, mentors, college visits, the arts and recreation. Directions focuses on community development and youth empowerment. We adhere to the principles of equality, fair play and cooperation. Our work is a part of a tradition begun by the settlement house movement, informed by the civil rights movement and expanded by a commitment to global citizenship.

Directions strives to ensure that young people receive the necessary resources for attaining health, education and information which will enable sound decision-making. Finally, Directions for Our Youth partners with other nonprofit organizations, government agencies, foundations and corporations to extend the reach and impact of our mission.