Philadelphia, PA — When Natassia was 14, she finally got a chance to put an end to something that had been haunting her for five years.
“When I was nine, I was falsely accused of assaulting my cousin,” she said. “I was going through a hard time. I ended up taking a plea deal.”
Natassia could have been sent away to a youth correctional facility. Instead, a judge assigned her to Philadelphia Youth Advocate Programs (YAP®), Inc., where she began working with an Advocate named Valentiña Landrine.
Celebrating its 50th year in 2025, YAP® is a national nonprofit in 32 states and Washington, D.C. that delivers community-based rehabilitative, restorative, behavioral health, and other services as an alternative to placing youth in trouble, crisis, or facing other complex challenges in corrections or residential care facilities. Natassia will be a part of the 50th Anniversary YAP® Making Change Happen Summit luncheon program on Nov. 6 in Philadelphia. She is also a member of the YAP® Alumni Ambassadors, former program participants and family members who share their experiences as a way to give back and raise awareness of YAP®.
Working with Landrine, Natassia began to see herself differently, more positively.
“I’m very creative and outgoing, and I love art and science,” she said.
YAP® Advocates, most of whom are from the neighborhoods served by the nonprofit, are trained to help program participants see and nurture their strengths and connect them and their parents, guardians, and other loved ones with tools that firm their family foundation.
“I freehand draw and I’m a visual learner,” Natassia said, adding that her skills include tattoo design. She also enjoys cooking and will soon begin culinary school. She credits Landrine for helping her remain positive as she builds on her natural talents and interests.
“Valentiña has been much more to me than an Advocate,” Natassia said. “She planned my prom and everything.”
YAP® will always be a part of her life. In addition to remaining close to Landrine, Natassia and another former YAP® participant whom she developed a close friendship with five years ago, are planning a family. She looks forward to her future and is proud to be a part of YAP®’s 50th Anniversary Summit, especially the luncheon.
“I’m excited to be introducing your speaker!” she said.
Learn more about YAP® and the nonprofit’s 50th anniversary program at www.yapinc.org.