New Pathways for Youth Scholarships Are Now Open 

Phoenix, AZ – January 21, 2026 

At New Pathways for Youth (NPFY), we believe that transformation doesn’t happen overnight—and it doesn’t happen alone. It happens through consistent support, meaningful relationships, and access to opportunity. That belief is at the heart of our Level Up Scholarships, which are now officially open. 

“As an organization, we don’t just invest in education—we invest in young people over time,” said Karen Johnson, President and CEO of New Pathways for Youth. “Our scholarships reflect the belief that when youth are supported through strong relationships and consistent guidance, they are better positioned to succeed in school and in life. 

Who Can Apply to the Level Up Scholarships 

NPFY scholarships are available exclusively to youth who are enrolled in the Level Up Program. Level Up is our long-term, relationship-based mentoring model that pairs young people with caring adult mentors and surrounds them with academic, social-emotional, and post-secondary planning support. 

By connecting scholarships to Level Up enrollment, we ensure that recipients are not navigating their next steps alone. They are supported by mentors, program coordinators, and a community committed to their success—academically, personally, and professionally. 

Scholarship funds may be used to support a range of post-secondary pathways, including college, vocational training, certification programs, and other approved educational expenses that align with a young person’s goals. 

Why These Scholarships Matter 

For many of the young people we serve, financial barriers can derail even the strongest motivation to continue their education. NPFY scholarships help remove those barriers while reinforcing an essential truth: when young people are supported over time, they succeed. 

Our scholarship recipients are not selected solely on grades or test scores. They are selected based on effort, commitment, growth, and participation in Level Up. This reflects our core philosophy—that transformation is built through consistency, accountability, and relationships. 

Community Investment with a Mission 

The NPFY Scholarship Program is made possible through the generosity of individuals and partners who believe in long-term impact. We are deeply grateful to the Ibis Foundation, the Dougherty Foundation, Jim and Mimi Dew, Lanita Lewis and H.L. Woodberry, and to the contributors to the Chris Yakscoe Fund. 

Their investment ensures that young people in our community have access not only to funding, but to a system of support designed to help them persist and thrive. 

Moving Forward, Together 

At New Pathways for Youth, education is not a finish line—it is a pathway. And pathways require guidance, stability, and belief. Through the Level Up Program and our scholarship support, we walk alongside young people as they build futures defined by purpose, resilience, and opportunity. 

For eligibility details, application timelines, and next steps, visit our Level Up Scholarship page or connect with your Program Coordinator.