This program is worth the time. While academics and sports are important, we’ve found that students still need to learn the skills to navigate real-world pressures and build deep, lasting support networks. Our program fills that gap by focusing on the character, community, and personal growth that standard classrooms leave out.
Here’s a closer look at the core values, soft skills, and practical leadership competencies we focus on cultivating in our students throughout the program.
Key competencies we cultivate across our workshops, retreats, and discussions.

Helping students navigate difficult situations with a level head, manage everyday pressures, and build healthy habits to take care of their own well-being.

Thinking ahead to life after high school—exploring personal interests, potential careers, and the concrete steps needed to get there.

Finding people who will listen and provide honest, helpful feedback, while learning how to show up and do the same for others.

Connecting with older role models and trusted advisors who have been through it before and can help guide students through key life decisions.

Giving back and taking an active role in serving our community so that its vital spaces, stories, and institutions remain strong for future generations.

Focusing on real-world leadership rather than titles—being a positive example to peers, stepping up when needed, and helping groups work together to reach common goals.
We intentionally design our sessions so they don’t feel like school. Our facilitators create an open, engaging environment where students feel comfortable being themselves, asking real questions, and exploring ideas earnestly alongside their peers.
Hands-on activities and exercises where students actively practice concepts, work through real-world scenarios, and test out ideas in real time.
Small circles where students can speak candidly, share their perspectives, and hear how others handle similar situations.
Collaborative activities that start and finish entirely within the session, giving students a chance to team up, solve problems together, and walk away with zero take-home work.
Casual, direct conversations with older community members to talk through life choices, school, and future plans.
Being part of Yo! has allowed me the opportunity to connect with the JA community across SoCal and beyond. I really got outside of my comfort zone talking to so many new people, but now I gained a new family that I get to reconnect with every year.
Kristin Ng
2026 Yo! Camp Staff
My involvement in Yo! arguably brought forth one of the most pivotal changes in my self-growth. The immersive and high-energy environment positively influenced my extroversion and confidence.
Justine Ueno
Yo! Camp Camper & Staff
Going to Yo! as a camper gave me the opportunity to interact with staff who truly embodied leadership. Returning as an instructor has helped me grow into that same role by creating engaging skits and activities for the campers.
Ella Wong
Yo! Camp Camper & Staff
Casual, direct conversations with older community members to talk through life choices, school, and future plans.
Some Person
Yo! Camp Staff
Casual, direct conversations with older community members to talk through life choices, school, and future plans.
Some Person
Yo! Camp Staff
Explore the core pillars, real-world outcomes, and overall philosophy behind the Yo! experience.
Take a look at a typical weekend schedule and the hands-on workshops our students participate in.
View our full trip destinations and mark the key weekend dates on your calendar.
Learn about our program costs and explore special rates when registering more than one student.
It’s the best team. Meet the dedicated mentors, facilitators, and workshop leaders who make the Yo! experience unforgettable.
No applications required. Enrollment takes just a couple minutes. Space is limited and first come first serve.