This organization brings the heart and spirit of yoga to the powerful young women in the Juvenal Justice System. Not only does AYP bring yoga, it brings a strong community of teachers, artists and yogis's together in a model of respect, support and powerful connection. In my 5+ years with the organization, each day feels even more inspirational than the day before--we learn from what the young woman share with us and continually adapt the program to suit the needs they express. I've never experienced something so simple and dynamic and feel so lucky to call the AYP community my community.

I have been working with the Art of Yoga Project for 3 years and I am inspired each and every day with the work of this organization. I started as an eager volunteer, looking to gain some experience as a new yoga teacher and to find a community outlet that felt authentic to my beliefs. I love yoga--what it has done for me and others in my community, but I have always seen a missing link. The missing link to communities who do not have the money or the exposure to tap into the benefits of the practice. Art of Yoga Project brings those resources to girls who need it most. The approach is so effective. The teachers with Art of Yoga Project use compassionate and loving techniques to help the girls find their inner strength in a practical way. AYP meets the girls where they are, using yogic tools and principles to effect behavioral change so they can make better choices in the future. AYP also creates a strong a positive community with the girls--creating a safe and respected circle with girls from opposing gangs and different communities on the outs. Through yoga and art, the girls are able to recognize how much they have to contribute to their community in a positive way. Art of Yoga Project is one of those organizations that makes you want to work more, to do everything you can to expand the impact.