About Us

Our mission is mental health wellness for everyone in our community.

431

Youth ages 13 to 18 served across Shelby County so far

Our Story

To support mental health wellness in our community. We live that mission three ways: Awareness across our community, Equitable Access to quality care, and Advocacy for the systemically marginalized.

Illustration of hands braiding strands together, symbolizing The Braid Foundation's mission of weaving community support
Youth Connect

Three ways to get involved

01.
Free individual and group counseling for Shelby County youth ages 13–18, where you choose your counselor.
Learn more
02.
Tips and support for the trusted adults helping a young person say yes to therapy.
Learn more
03.
Youth (13–17) and adult ambassadors advocate for youth mental health across Shelby County.
Learn more
Why Youth Connect

Why families choose
Youth Connect

A counselor talking with a young person and a family member during a support session
Easy Access to Counseling
We know finding a counselor at school or in the community can be tough. That's why we're making it super easy for you to get the support you need.
  • Free
  • Easy to start
A Network Just for You
We're building a network that helps you and your family find and access counseling easily.
  • Community-built
  • Local
Therapists Who Get It
We have a special group of therapists who understand what it's like to be a teen today. They're not just skilled; they're also friendly and respectful of who you are.
  • Culturally responsive
  • Identity-affirming
You Get to Choose
We listened to you, and we know you want to pick your therapist. So, we made that happen!
  • You choose
  • No assignment

Youth Connect’s impact so far

431

Youth ages 13 to 18 served across Shelby County so far

24

Culturally responsive therapists youth can choose from

$0

Cost to youth and families: every session, always

9 of 9

Highest health-disparity ZIP codes in Shelby County reached

Figures current as of August 2026.

Our Work

Where our energy is going

Give Today

Support is just a gift away.

Youth Connect works because a young person in Shelby County never sees a bill. Your gift is what keeps that true.

In the News

Youth Connect, in the community's own words

▶
Video coming soon

Youth Connect hopes to offer mental health services to hundreds

Memphis CBS affiliate WREG reports on Youth Connect and its goal of connecting hundreds of Shelby County young people to free counseling.
See all news
▶
Video coming soon

What is Youth Connect?

The Youth Connect program introduction: what it is, who it's for, and how a young person gets started.
See all news