Advancing the field.

(1981-2026)

After a truly amazing 45 years in business, in April 2026 Youth Catalytics will effectively close its doors.

From NECFY, to NEN, to Youth Catalytics in 2011, it is an understatement to say we’ve had a good run. Having been here for 30 of them, I am overwhelmed by what this organization has accomplished over its lifespan. 

In the 1980s and 90s, as our field was first coming into its own, there were many of us across the country–publicly funded, small to mid-size independent non-profit capacity builders, that routinely shared best practices and resources with one another. This network enabled us to see what was happening on the frontlines in various regions and multiple settings simultaneously, illuminated the bigger picture, and brought forward new and game-changing insights, models, and training that advanced the field nationwide. Needless to say, these efforts and their many ripple effects helped improve the lives of countless children, youth and families.

Our vast network of colleagues, trustees, advisors, partners and funders are too numerous to name, but you know who you are.

Over the years, as government support for human services tightened, so did funding for independent, capacity builders like us. Our competition became universities and affiliates that competed for (and won) contracts and grants that had previously been too small or too local for them to consider. Many of the more niche, often regionally based capacity builders became a casualty of consolidation.  

But Youth Catalytics adapted. We became even more innovative and nimble, went after secondary sub-contracts, developed new affiliations, incubated a couple of start-ups, including Think of Us, delivered more one-on-one consultation, all while producing exceptional tools and resources for a field hungry for genuine know-how. Indeed, our conservative estimate of 100+ thousand professionals trained, and $200+ million dollars raised for direct service programs over our tenure is a measure of our commitment and success.

Most of our tools and resources are published on our website, which will remain standing for another year or two. In anticipation of our closure, we’ve been re-posting some of our most important works in our monthly newsletter, Views & News, which is also on our website, but cease email distribution in April 2026.

Despite Youth Catalytics Inc. exiting the stage, several of us will continue to be available for individual consultation. Collectively we represent an enormous brain trust, with extensive experience at all levels—local to national, in direct services, organizational development, research, and training. 

I believe that the field will need seasoned experts when we eventually get to other side of this dark period, when our country restores democracy, and when reform and rebuilding can begin in earnest. I hope you will reach out as we all move forward towards whatever lies ahead.

(Click here for brief bios and direct contact information).

Meanwhile, here’s a toast to Youth Catalytics, Inc., to our incredible staff and Board, past and present, and to everyone else who contributed their expertise, experience, and support over these many years. 

Three cheers! 

~Melanie Goodman, Executive Director

April 2026

Our Vision

That the entire child and youth services sector is equipped to ensure the successful development of our young people in a more just society.

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