Metro Area Youth Services

08/29/2026

08/28/2026

This end-of-summer trip to Branson was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do—and how unique each group really is.

This wasn't just a fun getaway to close out the summer. This trip was earned.

Throughout the entire summer, we challenged our youth to show up, bring the right attitude, and truly embody our 5 Pillars. We watched them push themselves, stay engaged, and put in the work every day. Based on their participation, growth, and commitment, 18 youth earned an invitation, and we were thrilled to take 12 of them on the road to Branson—opening the door to new experiences and opportunities they might not otherwise get, take, or choose for themselves.

When you invest so much into the process, seeing it come full circle is incredible. Watching these young people step out of their comfort zones, relax, bond, and build lifelong memories after earning their spot was the best way to wrap up the summer.

They set the standard, lived out the pillars, and made this experience unforgettable. So proud of this group!

Thanks again to the funder who made this possible!!

08/28/2026

After 10 Hood to the Woods trips, it's easy to think you've seen it all - the activities, the scenery, the impact. But HTTW XI reminded us that no two journeys are ever the same.

This year brought a lot of firsts and unexpected turns. For the first time, our group included young ladies! We also faced last-minute curveballs when a long-time outfitter couldn't accommodate us at the last minute and river water levels forced us to pivot away from our usual rafting trip.

When you've done things ten times, taking things for granted is a trap. We had to be intentional, adaptable, and present. It was important to us that this group got an experience every bit as incredible, transformative, and memorable as the first ones. Pivoting through those challenges was a powerful reminder that no matter how experienced we are, the outdoors (and our youth) can still surprise us, challenge us, and teach us.

Such an amazing experience 💚

08/27/2026

We are solidly in the new school year, which means the second part of the summer flew past just as quickly as the first!

In addition to MAYS’ ELEVENTH Hood to the Woods trip (!), our end of summer trip to Branson, and our recording studio project, we also stayed busy with team challenges and team building, gardening, trips to the Luminarium, art projects, and so many other things.

Congratulations to Desy and her Hot Mess Express team for winning the Summer Team Challenge - they did a great job working together through the summer! They won a team lunch at Osaka. The rest of the teams did a fantastic job as well - it was close all the way through the final challenge.

It was a full summer and as sad as we were to see it end, we are so excited to see what this school year brings!

08/27/2026

At MAYS Creative Labs, we believe our youth are worth it and some.

08/27/2026

At MAYS Creative Lab, we believe our youth are worth it and some. ❤️

08/08/2026

The champ blessed us in the studio today!

07/14/2026

It’s crazy that we are at the beginning of our ELEVENTH Hood to the Woods trip. The trip that was a simple idea so many years ago has impacted dozens of youth and become an integral part of what we do and who we are at MAYS. This trip, we have one of our participants from the very first trip along as staff and are doing some new things we are pretty excited about as well! It’s going to be a great week!!

07/08/2026

Mannnnn, this young man 25 years ago definitely had me questioning why I got into youth services. With (TLC), Time, Love, and Consistency, this young man taught me how to have patience, perseverance, and genuine love for the youth and families I serve.....I hugged him and his Mom so tight tonight at Walmart I truly missed him and my love for him is stronger than ever. Keep growing young man, the world is yours. ❤️. RME

04/05/2026

It’s hard to believe we are already in April!! The first 3 months of 2026 have flown by and we have stayed busy at MAYS! This last week, we celebrated spring with new chicks 🐥, an Easter egg hunt, new snack ideas, and some time outside!! Looking forward to warmer weather and some new adventures!

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Happy Easter! 💜