
Fun, age-friendly training that builds strength and teaches proper form.
Simple nutrition guidance tailored for growing children.
Mentors who support and inspire every step of the way.
The Vision Behind Our Youth-First Mission
YWI emerged in 2023 as a response to the escalating youth health crisis that followed the covid-19 pandemic. Founder Jeffery Aguirre drew from his transformative personal experience with strength training to create a comprehensive wellness space where young people develop sustainable healthy habits while building confidence through the powerful mind-body connection through a strength and endurance training program.

The Impact
YWI will help young people build strength, confidence, and healthy habits through fun fitness, smart nutrition, and mental wellness support. The programs expand beyond the gym, supporting families and ultimately, shaping stronger communities.

The Mission
The Youth Wellness Initiative provides comprehensive wellness services designed to strengthen both the body and mind. Through professional fitness assessment and training, nutritional education, and structured mentorship, YWI will enable young people to establish the foundation for a healthy, confident future
Founder’s Ideology
“Confidence starts with movement. Strength grows with support. Futures change with care. Every program builds a stronger tomorrow.”
This statement reflects the guiding philosophy of Jeff, the founder of Youth Wellness Initiative. He believes that meaningful progress begins with action. When young people engage in movement, receive consistent support, and experience genuine care, they build the foundation for long-term growth.


Three Key Elements. One Comprehensive Vision.
The holistic approach to youth wellness has helped thousands of young people and families establish healthier habits through scientifically-validated programs.

After-School Fitness
Structured training sessions designed specifically for young bodies and minds, focusing on proper form, consistency, and progressive development.

Nutritional & Health Counseling
Learn the fundamentals of proper nutrition from experts who understand the unique needs of growing bodies.

School & Community Partner Programs
The School & Community Partner Programs through YWI deliver holistic wellness experiences straight to the schools, community centers, and neighborhood organizations.

After-School Fitness
Structured training sessions designed specifically for young bodies and minds, focusing on proper form, consistency, and progressive development.

Nutritional & Health Counseling
Learn the fundamentals of proper nutrition from experts who understand the unique needs of growing bodies.

School & Community Partner Programs
The School & Community Partner Programs through YWI deliver holistic wellness experiences straight to the schools, community centers, and neighborhood organizations.

After-School Fitness
Structured training sessions designed specifically for young bodies and minds, focusing on proper form, consistency, and progressive development.

Nutritional & Health Counseling
Learn the fundamentals of proper nutrition from experts who understand the unique needs of growing bodies.

Holistic Mentorship Program
The ability to connect with dedicated mentors to provide guidance, support, and motivation for their wellness journey.

School & Community Partner Programs
The School & Community Partner Programs through YWI deliver holistic wellness experiences straight to the schools, community centers, and neighborhood organizations.
Support Youth Wellness in Action
Partner with us to empower youth through structured movement, professional mentorship, and sustainable healthy habits.

Fund After-School Fitness Programs
Give youth a safe space to move, grow strong, and build confidence.

Provide Nutrition & Wellness Counseling
Help children and families learn healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Support Emotional Wellness & Mentorship Initiatives
Give young people access to trusted mentors and resources for emotional strength.
Volunteer
Be the Change That Shapes Tomorrow
Your contribution will enable YWI to create lasting change. With your support, YWI is able to empower the youth with the tools to build strength, confidence, and lasting wellness.
Join Us at Our Fundraising and Community-Building Events
Your participation directly impacts the lives of children and families, creating a ripple effect of positive change & holistic wellness.

Coming Soon
Our Impact Through Their Words
Hear firsthand how our wellness programs are making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
Being introduced to weightlifting at West Coast Barbell was best thing that has ever happened to me. I am grateful to have Jeff's mentorship and for the friends I have made. Working out at WCBB taught me discipline and strengthened my work ethic
Hi I’m Lilianna Castagnola, I am 9 years old . I have been attending Youth Wellness Initiative. I started by watching my mom getting strong and healthy. I wanted to be strong and healthy, and also get a six pack. Jeff made working out fun and taught me the importance of having a healthy body and how a healthy body grows big and strong. I play volleyball and I needed help with my overhand serve. He gave me a workout to do and then my overhands have become stronger and stronger. I also love doing squats. It's helped my legs get stronger
I started lifting at a pretty young age in comparison to my peers; 13 years old. My dad figured the stronger I was the easier things would be for my development in sports. While this was true, what we did not factor in was the culture, discipline, and work ethic a gym like West Coast Barbell instilled in me. I have made life long friends through my time at the gym and Jeff is a wealth of knowledge not just when it comes to lifting weights, but in life as well. In my 10 years of working out with Jeff I can confidently say I am a much better person. The lessons I learned helped me graduate Summa Cum Laude from Arizona State and are currently aiding me with pursuing my career in law enforcement.
"Before joining, I struggled with balancing school, sports, and life. Now, I have better time management, and I feel more confident tackling challenges. Youth Wellness helped me realize that strength is about balance."
"The mentorship in this program has been amazing. It’s not just about exercise or nutrition; it’s about building mental resilience and learning how to stay positive no matter what challenges come your way."
"I never thought fitness could change how I think. The Youth Wellness Initiative taught me how to push through mental barriers and take care of my body in ways I never imagined."
Wellness Tips, Stories, and Expert Advice for Youth
Catch up on our most recent blogs, featuring the latest trends in youth fitness, emotional wellness, and holistic wellness.

