About Us
A grassroots nonprofit engaging the community to support youth through music, arts, mentorship, and confidence-building programs
Our Story
Advance the Youth Project (ATYP) is a grassroots nonprofit organization rooted in San Luis Obispo County, dedicated to empowering youth through the transformative power of music, arts, and community engagement.
We believe that every young person deserves access to quality arts education and mentorship opportunities that foster creativity, build confidence, and develop essential life skills. Our programs are designed to create meaningful connections between youth and caring adults who can guide them toward becoming responsible, engaged, and impactful citizens.
What makes ATYP unique is our commitment to multi-generational impact. We bring together community members of all ages to support youth development, creating a ripple effect that strengthens families, neighborhoods, and our entire region. Through music lessons, arts programs, and mentorship opportunities, we're building a more connected and vibrant San Luis Obispo County.
Our Mission
To provide youth and the broader community with access to arts programs and services that promote health, wellness, and social-emotional development, with the goal of cultivating responsible, engaged, and impactful citizens.
Our Vision
We envision a San Luis Obispo County where every young person has access to quality arts education and mentorship, creating a thriving community of confident, creative, and connected individuals who contribute positively to society.
Our Values
These core principles guide everything we do at ATYP
Community
We bring together people of all ages to support youth development and create lasting connections.
Creativity
We foster artistic expression and provide opportunities for youth to discover their unique talents.
Mentorship
We connect youth with caring adults who guide, inspire, and support their personal growth.
Excellence
We provide high-quality arts education and programs that help youth reach their full potential.
Board of Directors
Our dedicated leadership team guiding ATYP's mission and vision
Brenda Glimpse
President
Providing strategic leadership and governance to ensure ATYP's programs create lasting community impact.
Ben Fine
Vice President
Supporting organizational leadership and helping drive strategic initiatives for youth development.
Colin Dean
Treasurer
Overseeing financial management and ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to maximize youth impact.
Teresa Lara Johnson
Secretary
Managing organizational records and communications to support ATYP's mission and operations.
Ashley Ogle
Board Member
Contributing expertise and passion to advance ATYP's programs and community partnerships.
Multi-Generational Impact
At ATYP, we believe in the power of bringing generations together. Our programs create opportunities for adults to mentor youth, share their skills, and give back to the community while helping young people develop confidence, creativity, and life skills.
Based in San Luis Obispo County, we're building a network of support that extends beyond individual programs. We're creating lasting relationships, strengthening families, and fostering a culture of giving back that will benefit our community for years to come.
Explore Our Programs
Join Us in Supporting Youth
Your support helps us provide music education, arts programs, and mentorship to youth across San Luis Obispo County. Together, we can create lasting impact.