Two Core Models. One Coordinated Framework.

Community-based and school-based models working together to ensure youth caregivers are identified, supported, and recognized.

Every model begins with recognition — because support cannot exist without being seen.

Community-Based Model: Direct Services

COYE’s Direct Services model provides structured, tiered support to youth ages 10–21 impacted by caregiving responsibilities within their homes.

Entry Points:

Self-identification

Family referral

School referral

Healthcare referral

Core Components:

Structured screening and tier placement

Prevention-focused engagement

Impact-based tiered support

Embedded respite programming

Family navigation and coordination

Non-clinical in-home support (when appropriate)

Transition planning for long-term caregivers

Make A Referral

School-Based Model: SHARKS

SHARKS (Students Helping and Recognizing Caregivers’ Strength) is COYE’s school-embedded model designed to strengthen identification and peer engagement within educational environments.

SHARKS Provides:

Structured identification pathways

Peer support groups

Leadership development opportunities

School collaboration and staff alignment

Referral connection to Direct Services

SHARKS strengthens school systems while ensuring continuity of support beyond school settings.

Learn About SHARKS

How the Models Connect

Youth may enter through SHARKS and transition into Direct Services for sustained support.
Youth may enter through Direct Services and receive school-based coordination.

Together, the two models create:

Early identification

Coordinated referral

Structured intervention

Sustained engagement across environments

This is a coordinated ecosystem — not isolated programming.