Get to Know Us

 YouthSpark Initiative was born from a deep passion for helping young individuals, a passion that has been a guiding force throughout my life. My journey began in the most personal of places - volunteering at my children's elementary school. From there, it expanded to various youth groups throughout their youth, each experience reinforcing my commitment to supporting and empowering youth.

Since 2018, I have opened my heart and home to two young individuals who had endured significant trauma and mental health challenges in their youth. Providing a safe haven for those in need and offering a listening ear to youth who simply needed someone to be there for them has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

In May 2023, a profound moment with a teenage girl I welcomed into my home in 2021 deeply inspired me. During her second semester of high school in early 2022, she confided in me, “Because of you, I feel safe to put the work in to get mentally healthy.” Her words resonated deeply, becoming a powerful catalyst that propelled me to dive deeper into the field of mental health. This experience solidified my decision to go back to school and pursue a PsyD in psychology. Since then, she has graduated high school, secured a job, and consistently helps with cooking and cleaning at home, showing remarkable growth and responsibility.

Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree at university, with my goal to become a child psychologist. I am on track to graduate this year, and my educational journey won’t stop there. I plan to continue my studies, driven by a profound concern for the alarming rise in teen suicide rates. Between 2007 and 2021, these rates increased by 62%, with the pandemic exacerbating the crisis even further.

At the beginning of 2024, I realized that I did not need to wait for a degree to start making a difference. Driven by a sense of determination, I sought out organizations where I could immediately contribute my time and effort. In March of 2024, I became a Mentor with MyThirdPlace, engaging in their youth group every Wednesday and assisting with various events.

My lifelong commitment is to support youth who lack access to the mental health and educational resources they desperately need. Through YouthSpark Initiative, I aim to significantly reduce the suicide rates among our youth and provide them with the support necessary to thrive.   

This journey is not mine alone; it is a collective effort, and together, we can make a profound and positive impact on the lives of young individuals.

Chrissy Guzman - Founder and Executive Director

Chrissy@YouthSpark.Foundation

Zinia R. Alvarado - Program Director

Zinia.Alvarado@YouthSpark.Foundation

Karly Lowmiller - Volunteer Coordinator

Karly.Lowmiller@YouthSpark.Foundation

Grace Agostinelli - Marketing and Communications Director

Grace.Agostinelli@YouthSpark.Foundation

Ashley Fore - Finance Director 

Ashley.Fore@YouthSpark.Foundation

At YouthSpark Initiative, our mission is to empower and uplift youth through mental health programs, mentorship, and community engagement. We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or circumstances. Our organization provides a safe and nurturing environment where youth can develop critical life skills and build lasting relationships with positive role models.

We believe in the transformative power of empowering youth and supporting their mental well-being. By investing in education, mental health resources, and community partnerships, we aim to create a future where every young person can thrive and contribute positively to society.

 We are committed to making a meaningful impact on the lives of youth in our community and beyond.