Welcome to

AYM Santa Cruz

Raising the next generation of youth leaders

AYM Santa Cruz is a local branch of the Area Youth Ministry, a non-profit Christian youth organization. Our mission is to connect middle/high school students with college mentors, offering support, camps, resources, and workshops that address tough life questions or topics related to Christianity.

What We Offer

Thrive mentorship offers high school students free, personalized mentorship. We believe in the youth as future leaders who can spread God's love in their communities, churches, and campuses.

Learn more

We host monthly workshops that offer diverse resources for students, such as college readiness, choosing a major, and advice from professionals in the industry. Additionally, we organize special talks that explore life's big questions, delving into faith and Christianity.

We also provide weekly sports sessions with free dinner, offering a relaxed hangout opportunity after school. If you're seeking some stress relief, we invite you to join us!

Meet our mentors

Nathanael

UCSC | Computer Engineering
Silicon Data Analysis Engineer @ AMD
I'm a UCSC graduate with a background in computer engineering, now working as an engineer at AMD. I enjoy spending time outdoors and with others. When I'm not working during the day, you'll find me on the basketball court, experimenting with various cuisines in the kitchen, or hanging out playing board games with Yuan and friends.
Monica

UCSC | Math Education
Math Teacher @ New Brighton Middle School
I studied math education and graduated with a Masters in Education from UC Santa Cruz. I love getting my students excited about math by using interactive math games in the classroom. During my free time, I relish moments with friends, explore new places through travel, and glide around on roller skates!
Nico

UCSC | Astrophysics
Data Analyst @ PG&E
I graduated from UCSC with a degree in Astrophysics and I currently work for PG&E as an analyst. I love photography, drinking and making coffee and playing basketball, but I don’t like board games tho. When I’m not working, you can probably find me at Verve in downtown Santa Cruz!
Ashley

UCSC | Economics & Math Education
Math Teacher @ Shoreline Middle School
I graduated from UCSC with a degree in Economics & a Master's in Math Education. I am a local - born in Watsonville! Throughout college I worked at the Boardwalk & with the Santa Cruz Warriors! Now I specialize in creating math games for my students at Shoreline - GO SHARKS! When I am not teaching or mentoring, you can find me out on the soccer field or at home playing some of my collection of 300+ board games with my friends.
Yuan

UCSC | Computer Engineering
Research Intern @ UCSC
I’m a recent graduate from UCSC with a degree in Computer Engineering, and I currently work as a research intern at UCSC. Apart from coding, I enjoy photography and making pour-over coffee with Nico. Unlike Nico, I like board games.
Sarena

UCSC | Psychology and Applied Lignuistics & Multilingualism
Volunteer
I am currently pursuing a graduates degree in Speech Language Pathology and hope to work with the neurodivergent and disabled community. I love crocheting, dancing, jewelry making, and learning new things. On the weekends, you can find me hiking around Santa Cruz and trying new coffee shops in the area.