American YouthWorks (AYW) emerged in 1976. AYW (formerly American Institute for Learning) was the first program in Austin to recognize the needs of individuals neglected by our educational system. In 1981, AYW established Austin's first program to serve high school dropouts and was the first to offer undereducated youth and adults alternatives to welfare and crime. AYW was the first organization in the region to offer self-paced, computer training and has continued to be at the forefront of incorporating technology learning. In the fall of 1996, AYW began one of the first Open Enrollment Charter High Schools in Texas. Over the years, AYW learned from our “customers” to directly address the multiple barriers to the future success of at-promise youth. We realized that the attainment of a diploma or GED alone does not ensure their continued academic and employment success. Therefore, AYW developed an educational methodology that combines diploma or GED education with real world experience and training. Our National Service Learning award-winning model teaches young people how to serve their community.