“Each one, teach one.”


Larry Thomas Youth Development

Photo: Larry Thomas (middle) and his sons

Larry Thomas Youth Development (LTYD) is an official 501(c)(3) organization

OUR VISION A transformative organization empowering young people to excel beyond limitation.

OUR MISSION Providing educational support and developmental programs to ensure young people fulfill their individual potential.


LTYD holds the Gold Seal! We are excited to share the work our nonprofit does. Learn how you can support us and make a difference.

The overarching goal of LTYD is to reduce high school dropout rates, increase college graduation rates, and improve the economic prospects of high-risk youth in Maricopa County, Arizona.

To our wonderful sponsors, we can do all things because of your support. Thank you!

Our Core Programs

1. Educational Support & Academic Success

LTYD provides vital educational resources and academic counseling to help at-risk students succeed in school. Our program includes comprehensive tutoring services across core subjects, focused homework help, and personalized college preparation assistance. We are committed to reducing high school dropout rates and increasing college graduation rates for underserved youth.

2. Mentorship & Positive Role Models

Our Youth Mentorship Program pairs students with caring and supportive adult mentors who serve as positive role models and provide essential guidance and encouragement. These one-on-one relationships are foundational to helping youth build social-emotional health and long-term resilience.

3. Leadership Development

The Youth Leadership Development Program equips students with the soft skills and knowledge they need to become effective leaders in school and life. Through practical activities, students learn critical skills in teamwork, communication, and real-world problem-solving, fostering the confidence required for future success.

4. Career Guidance & Economic Prospects

LTYD actively helps students explore different future career options and provides expert job search skills training. The program includes specialized career assessments, valuable job shadowing opportunities, and personalized career counseling to help youth confidently plan for their economic prospects.

5. Community Service & Civic Engagement

Our Community Service Program encourages students to give back and foster a sense of civic engagement. The program provides flexible opportunities for students to participate in local volunteer projects, emphasizing the importance of community contribution and youth altruism.

Larry Thomas Youth Development (LTYD) offers comprehensive programs built on the principle that every young person can excel beyond limitation. Our mission provides educational support and developmental programs designed to ensure young people fulfill their individual potential and improve the economic prospects of high-risk youth in Maricopa County, Arizona.