Expanding Impact the School Year: Inside Our Level Up Academy Summer Series 

Phoenix, AZ – June 17, 2026

Summer is often described as a time of freedom, but for many young people in Phoenix, it can also mean weeks without structure, connection, or the kind of guidance that makes a real difference. That’s exactly why New Pathways for Youth is doing something about it.  

This June, New Pathways is launching the Level Up Academy Summer Series, a four-day youth mentorship program designed to meet young people right where they are, during one of the most critical windows of the year.  

A Partnership Built on Purpose  

The Summer Series didn’t happen overnight. What began as a conversation between New Pathways and Child Crisis Arizona in late 2025 grew into something much bigger: a shared commitment to expanding access to meaningful youth development opportunities in our community.  

By bringing together young people from both organizations—and from the broader Phoenix community—the program creates space for diverse voices, shared experiences, and the kind of connection that helps teens grow into who they’re meant to be. This is what community mentorship looks like in action.  

More Than a Summer Program  

The Level Up Academy Summer Series isn’t your typical summer activity. It’s an intentional, trauma-informed mentorship experience built around what young people actually need: to feel seen, to build real skills, and to believe in what’s possible for them. 

Over four days at NPFY Home Base, approximately 20 participants will move through facilitated discussions, hands-on activities, and real-world life skills development, all guided by community mentors whose presence is central to the experience. These aren’t just adults in the room. They’re trusted guides who model positive behavior, hold space for honest conversation, and help youth build the confidence and resilience to navigate life beyond the program.  

The Team Making It Happen  

Behind every transformative program is a dedicated team. The Summer Series is led by Taylor Moschetti, Training & Curriculum Specialist, who developed the curriculum from the ground up; Lindsay Stanfield, Level Up Academy Manager, who coordinated logistics, community partnerships, and participant engagement; and Alejandra Ruiz, former NPFY staff and mentor, who brings a personal connection to the mission and supports facilitation on the ground.  

Together, they bring deep expertise in trauma-informed youth development and mentorship for teen, ensuring every moment of the program is both impactful and responsive to participants’ real needs.  

“The Summer Series reflects NPFY’s commitment to creating transformative experiences for young people wherever they are in their journey,” said Mark Garcia, Director of Training and Curriculum. “By bringing together youth, mentors, and community partners, we’re creating opportunities for growth, connection, and possibility during a critical time in their development.”  

Why Summer Matters  

NPFY’s Level Up Academy has long been a cornerstone of youth empowerment programs during the school year—but the work doesn’t stop when school lets out. Summer can be a period of disconnection for young people who lack access to structured opportunities for growth and leadership development.  

The Summer Series bridges that gap. It extends the trust, consistency, and mentorship youth need—right through the months when they need it most. It also serves as a living pilot for innovative curriculum strategies that will strengthen New Pathways for Youth’s year-round programs and mentor-mentee relationships across all of our work.  

What Comes Next  

The Level Up Academy Summer Series is more than a new initiative—it’s proof of what becomes possible when organizations align around a shared vision for youth in Arizona. It reflects NPFY’s belief that no young person should have to wait until September to access support, guidance, and the community they deserve.  

If you want to be part of what we’re building:  

• Become a mentor and invest directly in a young person’s future  

• Partner with NPFY and help us expand our reach. Email Lindsay Stanfield ([email protected]) to review collaboration opportunities with your organization.