
The LIFT Program (Leadership Infusion for Families & Teens) is a six-week intensive program that aims to be a net to catch at-risk youth who may be experiencing or committing violence, and to come alongside their parents and families to focus on one key component: reducing recidivism.

Elkhart Cohort - Cohort 4, 2025

South Bend Cohort - Cohort 16, 2025
At Five Star Life, our mission is simple: change the face of culture by changing the mindsets of kids.
Treating others the way you want to be treated.
Taking ownership of your past choices, current reality, and future dreams.
Who you are when no one is looking...the real you!
Giving up something now for something greater later OR giving up something I want to help someone else.
Having the strength to do what's right, rather than what's popular or comfortable.

In just the first three years, LIFT has achieved a 95% success rate—meaning 95% of participating students did not reoffend during or after the program.


The LIFT Program (Leadership Infusion for Families and Teens) is transforming how our communities respond to youth with minor offenses. Beginning with a partnership at the St. Joseph County Juvenile Justice Center, South Bend, IN- LIFT provides a powerful alternative—catching kids and their families in a supportive net designed to prevent violence, foster growth, and build brighter futures. With proven success and a 95% non-reoffending rate, LIFT is now Elkhart County and expanding into more counties across Indiana and into other states.
Choose your role below to see how you can make a difference:
Our program focuses on helping youth stay out of detention centers and fulfill their probation requirements. They discover a new direction for their lives.
With data showing a 95% success rate, LIFT provides a cost-effective, community-centered solution to reduce recidivism and protect youth futures. Champion proven solutions that reduce recidivism and strengthen communities.
Partner with UsYou know the challenges firsthand. LIFT is designed to work alongside your team, reducing repeat offenses. Together, we can change the trajectory of lives and communities. Bring LIFT to your center to help youth succeed.
Bring LIFT HereThe LIFT Program transforms lives with a proven, step-by-step approach that builds support, skills, and confidence.

We provide parental support and relationship-building tools to create stable, nurturing home environments.

Students receive group mentoring, conflict resolution guidance, and life skills development to grow confidence and resilience.

Through experiential learning, youth gain hands-on opportunities to apply what they learn and build a vision for their future.






"Thank you for listening to me when I needed it the most."

"Coming into the program I didn't want to be here. In the end, I was happy to meet a group of parents who were going through similar things. The staff were great and one thing I learned is to listen to my son more, and pay attention to what I'm doing to make us clash."

"This group is incredible. You really helped open my eyes in how to handle things that happen in life. It was fun and educational. Keep up the great work!"

"Thank you for allowing my daughter and I to come. She has opened up more, is taking responsibility for her actions, and becoming a more confident person."
Take the first step toward lasting change for your family. Fill out the form below to connect with our team, learn more about the LIFT Program, or get started today. Our team will reach out to answer your questions, guide you through the next steps, and help you enroll in the program that’s right for you.







Living a Five Star Life begins with a well rounded curriculum. See all of the programs Five Star Life has to offer: