PATHWAYS! May 2020
 We may be amidst a worldwide crisis, but New Pathways for Youth is still open for business! Our work on behalf of our community is essential, especially as our youth navigate the complexities of this pandemic. Many of our youth have communicated that they are really missing the sense of community and belonging that New Pathways provides. We recognize young people often find a sense of belonging with delinquent peer groups, gang affiliation, drug use, and so on. That’s why we’ve found creative ways to continue to provide a positive environment and help our youth break the cycle of adversity virtually.
One of these new creative practices is Community Connect, a weekly webinar for our mentors and youth to stay connected and grounded amid these uncertain times.
 Greetings from Community Connect! Another creative practice we’ve begun are Match Pods, a weekly conference call of 10 mentor and mentee matches to check-in with one another and participate in intentional support conversations.
This is truly an unprecedented time, and we recognize that it’s extraordinarily difficult for many of our youth and their families. So we cannot stop, we cannot slow down — we can and will continue to work every single day to respond with action and transform lives in our community.
You’re Needed Now More Than Ever  We’re all waking up in the morning a little more worried than usual. We’re uncertain of the future, and frankly, we’re all afraid of what the day could bring. Imagine how much more daunting this time is for a teenager! You remember how intimidating the world could be back then: think about how it must feel for our youth today. At New Pathways for Youth, we constantly emphasize that mentorship breaks the cycle of poverty and adversity. A single stable, nurturing relationship with a caring adult can transform lives. If you’re ready to be a part of that transformation, especially now, join us and learn more about becoming a mentor! You can get started completely virtually. We’ll be alongside you every step of the way.
 Bern and Jacob: How our Matches are Staying Connected Jacob, a youth in our program, has been feeling isolated during this global pandemic. He’s not seeing his friends, classmates or New Pathways community, and is really missing those interactions and routines. (We can all relate to that!)
He lives with his mom and older brother, but they are still working at essential businesses. That means Jacob is home alone for much of the day. His mentor, Bern, recognized this struggle when he started checking-in with Jacob more frequently, as recommended by New Pathways.
So Bern had an idea: he started putting together care packages for Jacob and his family, and drops them off every week. While this is a great morale boost in a tough time, it also gives Bern and Jacob a chance to connect face-to-face (though six feet apart!) and strengthen their New Pathways bond. On top of that, Jacob joined Bern to distribute food to other families in need, serving the community together!
That important connection keeps Jacob nourished and focused on his goals, but most importantly, ensures he feels cared for in an uncertain and unstable time. We are so proud of Bern and Jacob — and all of our matches who are finding creative ways to support each other and stay connected.
Stimulus Checks are Here!
What does the CARES Act mean for New Pathways for Youth? A new deduction for charitable donations in 2020 is available: up to $300 per person and up to $600 for married couples.
This is an “above the line” deduction, meaning it reduces your adjusted gross income (and thus your taxable income). This deduction can be claimed even if you won’t itemize deductions on your 2020 tax return.
If you’re able, please consider giving back to our community and donating to New Pathways for Youth. Every dollar you give builds a bright, promising future for a young person facing adversity.
Huge Increase If You Itemize! The existing cap on cash contributions has been increased to 100% of adjusted gross income.
Opportunity for Corporations The existing deduction cap for corporations has been increased to 25% of taxable income. This new deduction cap is only applicable to cash gifts going to a public charity.
Haven’t Received a Check? The best resource to “check on your check” is directly with the IRS. Visit irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment
Thank You! We want to give a very special thank you to all the organizations that have stepped up in recent weeks and helped provide emergency relief to our youth and our families.
These organizations aren’t just making donations: they are investing in our youth and their futures, and they’re crucial partners as we work to close the gap.
Upcoming Events Impacting Futures Briefing Learn all about how we are disrupting poverty and creating impact for our youth, their families, and their communities. They are held virtually:
|
