Why Young Guns?
As of September 2025 youth unemployment is at 14.7%, an alarmingly high number. Along with this, mental health issues for young people have more than doubled.
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We've found an incredibly effective and practical way to help these youth and bring lasting change. It's the old saying of 'teach a man to fish' in real life, mentors and youth get together at our shop nights each week and the results are clear.
It's a simple formula
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we provide the space and tools
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experienced mentors volunteer their time
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youth gain skills through hands on work, and develop who hey are in a supportive community
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Our results speak for themselves:
Young Guns Strengthens career prospects
Our program equips youth with hands on skills in mechanics, as well as general life skills such as confidence, communication, and the value of hard work. Whether they pursue a career in mechanics, trades, or anything else, the skills youth are developing at Young Guns set the foundation for their future careers.
Young Guns Strengthens mental health
Young Guns Garage provides a sense of community and belonging, reinforcing a sense of self-worth. Youth get to experience the satisfaction of overcoming challenges and completing projects, while working side by side with mentors who are passionate about their wellbeing.
​The car is the project.
Having a shared project removes barriers and creates an environment for natural connection that's not awkward. Youth can be free to work and develop without feeling any pressure.
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​Working 'shoulder to shoulder'
Growth and connection happens naturally. Sometimes through conversation, sometimes through observation. There's so much more to connect on than just talking face to face
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Teaching by example.
Mentors with years of expertise connect with youth who may initially know nothing about cars. By simply being around and watching mentors work youth see not only hands-on skills being demonstrated, but also how mentors communicate, work hard, and overcome challenges.
Growth and healing through accomplishments.
New trauma research shows that many parts of the brain cannot be accessed through conventional talk therapy, instead physical movement and the feeling of problem solving builds natural confidence and combats depression and anxiety.
​​​An opportunity to try something new.
Just like a car has many parts, our youth have many skills. projects at Young Guns Garage expose youth to a variety of different experiences, such as:
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welding
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mechanics
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wiring
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CAD design
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project management
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photography
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and more
Through these experiences youth are encouraged to try new things, ultimately discovering their passions while setting ambitious but attainable goals for themselves in their careers and in their personal growth.​