The Meaning of Celebrations for Our Youth 

Phoenix, AZ. – December 4, 2025

At New Pathways for Youth, we take celebration seriously—not because of the decorations or the snacks, but because joy has real power. For many of our youth, fun isn’t always easy to come by. Holidays can highlight stress, financial pressure at home, or memories that aren’t always bright. So when we create a space filled with music, games, and laughter, we’re doing more than hosting a party. We’re giving our young people something they absolutely deserve: a moment to breathe, connect, and feel the support of a community cheering them on. 

This year’s Holiday Celebration—under the theme Reindeer Games—brings that spirit front and center. It’s a chance for youth and mentors to relax, play together, and build memories they’ll carry long after the decorations come down. 

Why Fun Matters in Transformation 

In our Level Up program, we talk a lot about goals, growth, and rewriting limiting beliefs—but fun is just as important. Play opens the door to trust. It helps young people let their guard down and feel safe enough to stretch, try new things, and imagine bigger possibilities for their lives. 

When youth join a team relay, laugh through a silly challenge, or compete side-by-side with their mentor, something real happens: 
They feel included. 
They feel confident. 
They feel like they belong somewhere. 

Those feelings aren’t small. They fuel the deeper work we do—showing them that transformation doesn’t have to be heavy all the time. Joy is part of the journey too. 

Celebration in Community 

The Reindeer Games only happen because we have a community that believes in giving youth these joyful moments. 

A huge thank-you to the Suns-Mercury Foundation for stepping up with generous support. Their commitment helps us make the celebration full, warm, and meaningful. 

We’re also grateful for Desert Financial and their incredible volunteers. Their enthusiasm, kindness, and hands-on help make a huge difference—not just at the holidays, but throughout the year. Also to our friends at Downtown Phoenix and the Phoenix Community Alliance for having as part of their “PJs in the Park” event.  

And we want to give special recognition to Karen Quick, longtime mentor and loyal supporter of NPFY, as well as Skyler McCurdy, board member Nicholas Velasquez, Melinda Gordon, Sally Ann Brandtneris, and Lauren C Frank, who donated toward stocking stuffers, helping us make sure every youth receives something personal and fun.  

We’re Still Collecting Donations 

Your donations—big or small—go straight to our young people through our Holiday Drive, other celebrations like Graduation Season and all of our programs. These gifts help us meet real needs and create a holiday season filled with comfort, surprise, and joy.   

There’s still time to contribute—donate here. Your support brings real joy to our youth and reminds them that their community is thinking of them. 

Celebration Creates Possibility 

At NPFY, fun isn’t a distraction, it’s part of how transformation happens. When a young person laughs freely, feels supported, and experiences joy in community, they start to see their own potential differently. 

Thank you to everyone who makes that possible. Together, we’re creating a holiday season—and a future—where our youth feel valued, supported, and ready to thrive so they can live their live with joy and purpose.