Mendocino County Youth Project, also known as MCYP or “The Youth Project” began in 1974 by the Mendocino County Probation Department, supported by community advocates and local educators seeking solutions for youth who were having difficulty at school, in the community or in the home. MCYP became   autonomous as a joint powers agency in 1992 and is governed by a board of directors with members appointed by the Mendocino County Office of Education, the City of Ukiah, and the Ukiah, Willits, Fort Bragg and Point Arena school districts.

Mendocino Family and Youth Services (MFYS) was incorporated as The Youth Project’s non-profit 501(c)3 affiliate. MFYS has it’s own volunteer board of directors and supports the efforts of MCYP services. MFYS also oversees the Jim Levine Legacy Scholarship Program and supports the annual Youth Action Party event and the Youth Art Auction.