YES Company

In-Depth Description

YES Company is a year-round performing arts/career, prevention/intervention program that provides a comprehensive musical theatre experience for students to learn positive alternatives to potential high-risk behaviors. Participants acquire lifetime skills of leadership, communication, teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic.

YES Company, chartered in 1992 by the Stanislaus County Office of Education and Modesto City Schools, provides students with a fulfilling activity in a safe, nurturing environment, where differences are valued and celebrated. Utilizing theater as a tool to impact behavior positively, YES Company breaks down cultural/economic/social/academic boundaries fostering new talents and abilities. Students finish YES Company more empowered, increasing involvement in school/the community/the work world.

YES Company is supported by the Education Foundation of Stanislaus County, as well as grants and donations from individuals, businesses, civic organizations, and philanthropic endeavors. Over 100 community volunteers, including theatre professionals, donate time, guidance, or materials at an estimated $100,000 of in-kind service each year.

Overall, well over 1,000 students, every school in the county represented, have participated in YES Company. Students who might never have acknowledged one another become lifelong friends. Over 100,000 community members have attended YES Company performances/activities in the past 20 years.

YES Company’s goal of involving not only Modesto youth, but youth county-wide, has led to many deeply developed partnerships. Ongoing collaborations with Modesto Junior College and CSU Stanislaus allow students to earn college credits, work on college campuses, and feel encouraged to take their education beyond high school. 

Citizens are integral, serving as guest speakers, professional consultants, and volunteers. The public is given the opportunity to observe teens engaging in significant work and, in turn, can take pride in the youth of their community. 

YES Company continues its youth outreach through the inception of YES Kidettes, YES Kids, YES Grads and YES Ambassadors. All facets considered, an estimated 25,000 community members will be involved or observe a YES Company performance or activity this year.