Toni Morrison once said “If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.” That is what we intend to do here at I was 16 Yesterday Wellness Center. Write a book on how young adults are to be served! As we have yet to read a book quite like this. We invite you to come along with us, on this amazing journey for youth and young adults to experience how this book will come into fruition.  

​

Founder/CEO Sebrena Pawley: Growing-up I was part of the NYC Foster Care system.  I often questioned my self-worth. I attempted suicide at the age of 16. After this unsuccessful attempt I met a mentor who would forever change my life. My mentor took me under his wing and taught me that I had value, and how to advocate for myself.  Homeless, and broken he immediately referred me to a Shelter in Manhattan that had wrap around services for homeless youth.  This was the decision that changed the trajectory of my life. While living at this Shelter I became the front desk intake/receptionist. At the age of 16 I witnessed first-hand youth, and young adults who shared my same story. The same story of feeling worthless, and unstable. It was in that moment that I decided I wanted to be a part of changing their lives. My goal in the beginning was to give out daily affirmations to each young person that came into the Shelter. What I didn’t realize is how my life would be shifted. The more I gave of myself to the service of others, was the more it was instilling courage inside of me to step out on faith and trust. This is when I knew I found my gift. This is when I knew I could become a role model which could lead young adults to positive self-efficacy. I have been volunteering and working in direct care with young adults for the past 35 years. I encourage each young adult that comes across my path to find their gift and once found they must give it away. One of my favorite quotes that I share with the young adults comes from Oprah Winfrey: You are worthy simply because you were born.

We are asking for donations to secure a space,  for paid internships, scholarships, interview clothing, support services such as monthly metro cards for transportation. I Was 16 Yesterday Wellness Center is committed to servicing 16-24 year old, In School, High School Graduates, Disengaged from High School, Foster Care, and the LGBTQUIA+ community. Youth and young adults deserve a seat at the table, especially if the solutions concern them! At I Was 16 Yesterday Wellness Center we will encourage youth and young adults to design their own journey. It is time we all open our ears and genuinely make a space at the table for young people to become our partners, and to have a say as to how they want to be served. Our vision is to ensure that all young adults are Valued, Seen and Heard.