Determined to reach out to all youth and families, including those who may be gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender, many churches and synagogues as well as religious schools participate in our work. Welcoming clergy and congregations can sign a YES Institute Affirming Stand. Those wishing to open dialogue or receive accredited training on topics of communication, orientation, and gender are encouraged to contact us contact us.

We have held exclusive communication courses for Methodist ministers; Catholic clergy at a private religious school in Miami, Florida; a rural Ministerial association in Dahlonega, Georgia; (Read More) an interfaith group of clergy in Jacksonville, Florida; a group of ecumenical clergy and lay ministers in Wilmington, Delaware; and the staff of Coral Gables Congregational Church, as well as an ongoing partnership with the Episcopal Diocese of South Florida.  Read More.

The Conversations with God (CWG) Spiritual Center of Miami honored Martha Fugate, Director of YES Institute, for her contributions toward developing a global culture of peace. CWG presented Martha a Peace Medal at a reception with Neale Donald Walsch, author of the New York Times best-selling book series Conversations with God.  Read More.

In February 2001, South Florida Center for Theological Studies officially accredited our Ministry Communication Solutions™ Course.

Theology students can now receive credit through SFCTS for completing our courses.

"…an effective tool for discussing safety and security for all our children. I am so enthusiastic about the possibilities." - Pastor Lyle Dykstra, Wilmington, DE

"…the way to a just and lasting peace will not be by out-maneuvering or converting our adversaries. Rather it will be by identifying our common hopes, then common objectives… I don’t think it’s too much to hope for, because I have seen YES Institute identify common hopes and make them blossom into astounding win-win results." - Rev.Tom Davis, Wilmington, DE

"It was very difficult for me to let go of the concept of right and wrong, but now I see how quickly this model moves people beyond that battleground." - Scot Stetka, Lay Minister, Wilmington, DE

"We have a long way to go in the church. This model will definitely move us forward."- Sandra Cleland,Youth Coordinator, Coral Gables Congregational Church in Coral Gables. FL

"…valuable information to use in future discussions in church and school about how we can all work together for the safety of our youth." - Rev. Charles Schroeder

“I'm excited and encouraged because I know how difficult it can be to initiate dialogue in the church environment. The progress that YES Institute has made speaks volumes about the work that Martha and her staff have accomplished. Their work is absolutely visionary.” - Jacques S. Soukup

“I now realize the great need to address challenges faced by gay and lesbian young people. The method YES Institute uses makes it easy for all to become involved with the single purpose of assuring these kids may have life in abundance. It allows all to focus on things held in common while not challenging or threatening any principles. It empowers people to put into action the words of Jesus for the good of kids.” - Catholic priest at Barry University presentation