In Bozeman, MT, Big Sky Youth Empowerment—called BYEP—provides 36 weeks of intensive group mentoring to vulnerable teens in grades 7 to 12. All of the youth face challenges that have led them to reach out for support and intentional community. For many, those challenges—coupled with adolescence—cause high levels of anxiety and depression. Nearly half of BYEP youth struggle with suicidal thinking in the 12 months before joining the program. “By choosing to become a part of BYEP, teens are pursuing a new path, rooted in peer support, mentorship, and time spent outdoors,” says Anna Gray Tapia, BYEP’s Grants and Data Manager.

“BYEP is good at keeping us active. They try to keep everyone’s physical and mental health good . . . . They also feed us, which is cool. They honestly are like a second home to me. I love BYEP.”

—Teen participant in the Big Sky Youth Empowerment program

The program works to provide a welcoming, safe space where teens can be their authentic selves, experience success, and make informed decisions about the future. Youth meet in groups of six to eight with trained volunteer mentors for weekly, 3-hour workshops focused on life skills. Most mentors are between 20 and 30 years old, bridging the gap between adolescence and adulthood. Everyone meets again on Sundays for all-day outdoor adventures in Montana’s mountains, forests, and rivers—including white water rafting. BYEP also provides youth with counseling, academic support, and referrals to other needed services.

BYEP is divided into three 12-week seasons—winter, summer, and fall. At the end of each, the program surveys teens about their experiences. One question asks about the challenges participants face. Responses vary. Some teens describe food insecurity, housing instability, and conflict at home. Other responses refer to anxiety, bullying at school, and fear of being alone.

The survey also asks teens why they participate in BYEP. “Because I feel safe,” one wrote. Teens say they feel accepted at BYEP—free to be open and honest. “It’s like a break from life,” another said.