Kentucky River Foothills Development Council sponsors the Youth Investment Project (YIP). YIP serves 16-18 year old high school seniors in Estill and Powell Counties. This in-school program is designed to help youth with some of the struggles that they may encounter during their senior year, including clothing and personal care needs, tutoring and study skills, senior photos, employment searches, ACT preparation, FAFSA paperwork, college visits, and subsequent applications.

Career exploration trips are planned throughout the year to familiarize youth with work environments in various fields of interest to them.

An in-school coordinator assists in each of Estill County High and Powell County high schools serving as the primary contact for the youth involved in the program. These coordinators help with preparation for the Annual Bluegrass Area Regional WIA Competition held each spring, and also work with youth and other YIP staff to plan yearly community service projects.

Several youth also plan and carry out individual service projects and are given the opportunity to participate in leadership activities focusing on communication skills, resume preparation and interviewing skills, study skills, financial aid, and serious health and safety issues that can apply to these youth.

During the last 4 summers, the Youth Investment Project has been involved with the National Summer Food Program during June and July. The summer food program provides work experience for students while they earn a stipend for their service. Students learn site supervision, food distribution, clean up, and meal preparation and presentation.
Over 10,000 meals have been served each summer.

For more information about the YIP program, please contact:

Sharon Niece
YIP Coordinator
Kentucky River Foothills
209 River Drive
Irvine, KY 40336
Phone: (606) 723-6629
Email: sharonniece@foothillscap.org