Why Aren't You Smiling Inc

Why Aren’t You Smiling Inc. (W.A.Y.S.) is an Indianapolis-based nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening and rejuvenating the mental health and overall well-being of youth ages 5–19. Since 2016, W.A.Y.S. has created safe, supportive spaces where young people can express themselves, build confidence, develop healthy coping skills, and gain experiences that help prepare them for successful futures. Our mission is carried out through the processes of inspiration, guidance, listening, and helping youth recognize and reach their full potential.

W.A.Y.S. takes a holistic, non-clinical, healing-centered approach to youth development. We recognize that a young person’s mental well-being is connected to many areas of life, including relationships, education, financial stability, self-esteem, career opportunities, and exposure to new experiences. Our programming therefore combines mental wellness and social-emotional development with hands-on enrichment opportunities. Youth participate in activities such as financial literacy, job and career readiness, entrepreneurship, photography, music and DJ instruction, carpentry, art, podcasting, community service, cultural experiences, exercise and yoga that promote emotional regulation and stress management.

Funding is needed to help W.A.Y.S. continue providing consistent, high-quality programming while keeping activities accessible to families. W.A.Y.S. is a free organization. Funds would support program instructors and facilitators, educational materials, equipment and supplies, transportation, meals and snacks, facility expenses, mental wellness activities, career-readiness experiences, community service projects, and educational and cultural enrichment opportunities.

Funding would also help us provide youth with opportunities that extend beyond traditional programming. These experiences may include meeting professionals from various industries, participating in mock job interviews, learning financial skills from banking professionals, developing youth-led projects, visiting colleges and businesses, and participating in service-learning experiences.

An investment in W.A.Y.S. is an investment in the whole child. Our goal is not simply to keep young people busy; it is to help them develop the mindset, skills, confidence, relationships, and opportunities necessary to make healthy decisions and envision a successful future. With continued community and financial support, W.A.Y.S. can expand these opportunities and ensure more young people have a safe place to be heard, encouraged, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.