Program Overview

This structured "each one, teach one" model ensures that as our youth (ages 14-21) overcome their own barriers, they immediately reach back to pull the next generation forward, strengthening the entire fabric of the Florence community. 

❋ Age-Based Youth Development

Spotlight On Youth serves youth ages 14–21 in two groups — ages 14–17 and 18–21 — so each participant receives support that fits their stage of growth.

❋ Mentorship & Personal Coaching

Youth receive guidance from caring mentors and coaches who help them build confidence, set goals, make better decisions, and discover their strengths.

❋ Life Skills & Leadership Training

Led by experienced guides who know how to hold space, encourage participation, and keep things moving with purpose.

❋ Community Service & Youth Showcases

Our events prioritize comfort, safety, and respect—so you can show up as you are and fully engage in the process.

In a Nutshell

What It Is

S.O.Y. is a youth development program for ages 14–21, split into two groups so support fits each stage of life:

  • 14–17: Leadership, decision-making, responsibility, career awareness

  • 18–21: Adulthood prep — mentorship, goal-setting, professional readiness

Through mentorship, coaching, workshops, service, and events, youth get a safe space to grow — guided by caring adults who understand the real challenges young people face today.

Why It Matters

Many young people are carrying more than adults realize — school struggles, low confidence, pressure, grief, or just not knowing where they fit.

S.O.Y. isn't about labeling a child by their challenges. It's about helping them discover their strengths and take real steps toward who they're becoming.

Every child deserves a chance to shine.

What Your Child Will Experience

  • 🤝 Mentorship — A consistent, caring adult who says "I see you, I believe in you."

  • 🎯 1-on-1 Coaching — Personal goal-setting around confidence, school, career, and life

  • 🙌 Community Service — Real opportunities to practice responsibility and teamwork

  • 🎤 Youth-Led Events — Showcases where kids plan, host, and shine in front of family

  • 📚 Group Workshops — Leadership, financial literacy, conflict resolution, career exploration, and more

The Generational Bridge

Our "each one, teach one" model: as older youth grow, they mentor the younger group — becoming junior mentors, workshop helpers, and role models. Everyone grows by lifting someone else up.

What Youth Gain

  • Confidence

  • Communication

  • Responsibility

  • Leadership

  • Life Skills

  • Purpose

The Team Behind It

Denise Flippen — Program founder, nurse, and survivor. Denise turned her own story of hardship into a mission: helping young people find their worth and rise above what tries to define them.

Darren Hanna — Program Coordinator. Darren knows the Florence community up close and works to build youth a pathway of support, accountability, and leadership.

Volunteers — Caring adults who show up consistently to mentor, encourage, and support.

Is S.O.Y. Right for Your Child?

Good fit if your child could use:

✔ Positive mentorship   ✔ More confidence   ✔ Leadership opportunities ✔ Better communication   ✔ Help finding their gifts   ✔ Community service experience

Your child doesn't need to have it all figured out. That's exactly why this program exists.

Our Promise to Parents

We care about who your child is becoming — not just what they accomplish. Every youth leaves with stronger character, real life skills, and the confidence to know they have something to offer.

Enroll Today

Give your child the mentorship, encouragement, and leadership opportunities they need for their next level of growth.

[Enroll Your Child]

Questions about eligibility, schedule, or enrollment? Contact Enter the Cave — we're happy to help you figure out if S.O.Y. is the right fit.

Sample schedule

Arrive & Meet

As everyone arrives, we take time to settle in, get comfortable, and begin connecting with those around us. The journey starts here.

Check-In

9:00 – 9:30am

Group Activity

11:00am

Lunch Break

12:30pm

Creative Workshop

2:00pm

Dinner

6:30pm

  • "What I love most is the flexibility. I can go at my own pace, revisit lessons, and keep learning whenever it works for me."

    Former Customer

  • "Even as a total beginner, I never felt lost. The step-by-step structure and encouragement along the way made all the difference."

    Former Customer

  • "This has been such a worthwhile investment in myself."

    Former Customer

How It Works

  • Browse our upcoming events to find the one that feels right for you. We host events year-round in all different locations and climates.

  • Sign up and pay all required fees to reserve your spot. If plans change, you can cancel up to 14 days before the retreat start to receive a 50% refund.

  • After booking, we'll send you a Welcome Packet with everything you need to know—detailed schedules, packing list recommendations, add-ons to consider, and more.

  • We'd recommend booking your transportation to and from the event as soon as possible, to ensure you can arrive without any complications or delays.

  • Now all that's left to do is pack your bags and get excited for your new adventure.