NextGen Leaders
At JOVEN, you’ll find a place where you can be yourself, make friends, and grow. Whether it’s learning new skills, getting help with school, joining fun activities, or talking to someone who gets it we’re here for you. This is a space to explore your strengths, dream big, and take steps toward the future you want.
JOVEN empowers youth through comprehensive, culturally responsive programs that foster personal growth, academic achievement, and strong community connections.
WHERE EVERY CHILD HAS THE PROMISE OF A BRIGHTER TOMORROW
Empowering Youth's Futures
Creating Opportunities for Youth
About JOVEN
Our Story
JOVEN—pronounced "hoven"—stands for Juvenile Outreach Vocational Educational Network, a name that captures our deep commitment to empowering the youth of San Antonio. We equip children and their families with the tools they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. We envision a vibrant, united community where youth and their families find hope, strength, and the opportunity to thrive ensuring every child has the chance to realize a brighter future.
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Founded in 1992 by the Benedictine Resource Center, JOVEN was created in response to the rising tide of gang activity and juvenile delinquency in Bexar County. From the start, we’ve championed a collaborative model, partnering with local organizations, agencies, and churches to provide holistic support through outreach, counseling, and structured programming tailored for youth. By 1996, JOVEN became an independent, non-profit Minority Community-Based Organization, charting its own path while staying true to its founding purpose.
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Today, JOVEN is recognized at the local, state, and federal levels as a trailblazer in youth advocacy. We’ve grown into a dynamic organization that delivers services across four key areas: Health Education, Prevention, Intervention, and Counseling. Our overarching goal is to create safe, supportive spaces where young people can grow, learn, and lead. We focus on reducing school dropout rates, criminal behavior, substance use, teen pregnancy, and childhood obesity while promoting resilience, wellness, and positive life choices.
Our Mission
JOVEN’s mission is to develop character and resiliency in children by providing them with innovative and exciting programs, as well as structured alternative activities, that are designed to help them to succeed.
Our Vision
To create a healthy community, in collaboration with others, where youth and their families experience healing and empowerment.
OUR VALUES
Programs
At JOVEN, we partner with families to support the growth and well-being of their children.
Our programs offer a safe, nurturing environment where young people can build confidence, develop essential life skills, and stay engaged through positive, enriching activities.
From counseling and mentorship to academic support and leadership training, we’re here to help your child thrive at home, at school, and in the community.
JOVEN's programs are designed to meet the needs of the whole family, not just the individual. We aim to reduce the impact of negative social forces and promote strong, resilient family structures.
We offer services in a centralized location and respecting the cultural values of the communities we serve, we ensure that every child and family feels seen, supported, and empowered.
Our work centers around empowering youth to thrive by building the skills, confidence, and support systems they need to succeed in school, make positive life choices, and develop into strong, resilient leaders.
We provide proactive mental health screenings and counseling to identify issues before they escalate.
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We offer school-based intervention programs that equip youth with coping skills, emotional regulation techniques, and resilience-building strategies.
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We create supportive environments that reduce stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations.
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We work closely with families and educators to ensure a holistic support system for students in need.
JOVEN: Building Brighter Futures, One Life at a Time
Empowering Youth, Inspiring Futures! Through Experience and Leadership
Empowering Youth All Summer Long
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From Campers to Leaders Inspiring Growth, Fun, and Future Success
Summer Explorers in Action!
Our summer camp field trips take learning and fun beyond the classroom! Campers will explore exciting destinations like museums, parks, nature centers, and local attractions each trip designed to spark curiosity, encourage teamwork, and create unforgettable memories.
Join us for exciting opportunities and experiences.
Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders Today
Through mentorship, career exploration, and financial literacy training, participants gain valuable experience in professional settings while developing a vision for their future
Join us in creating a better future for the youth community.
Field Trips, Big Discoveries!
Whether they’re discovering science in action or connecting with nature, every outing is a hands-on adventure that inspires kids to see the world in new and exciting ways.
Learn how JOVEN has made a difference in the lives of young individuals.