YAR Vlaanderen vzw

Our Mission

YAR Vlaanderen makes a difference in the life of young people between 15 and 21 years old who are struggling in different areas of life. We offer these young people an opportunity to get their lives back on track. Two programs are at the heart of our work: 'YAR Coaching' and 'YAR Housing'. These programs allow young people to experience that they themselves are responsible for their choices. And that making conscious choices is the first step to take their life or housing situation in their own hands. Our participants get a reboot in life, believing that they have a new chance at making something of themselves, no matter their past or circumstances. Personal development, in a sense of taking full ownership of their lives and more particularly their future, is the first foundational pillar of our work. Strengthening the social network is the second pillar of our programs. Creating a network around our young people is crucial in the personal development work we do. In collaboration with professional employees, both programs are made possible by an extensive network of volunteer coaches, partner organizations, companies, socio-cultural organizations and local authorities. Working with volunteers is a fundamental choice and an important element within our community-based work. Working with volunteers is crucial to the success of young people within the programs of YAR Vlaanderen. Young people, often with a long-standing history in youth care, thrive on the fact that their coaches are willing to invest a lot of time and energy into them, without being remunerated. It enhances their trust in our organization, in adults and subsequently, in society at large. YAR Vlaanderen always thinks one step ahead and continually strives for improvement and self-development. We are relentless in our strive to help our youngsters have a genuine fresh start in life as responsible, reasonable, self-reliant and confident young adults.