WHO WE ARE:

Life for youth of urban communities is no joke.  Along with the expected pressures that youth, and particularly teenagers, are traditionally faced with, other factors such as street violence, poor education, dysfunctional homes, unemployment, poverty, the effects of the crack epidemic, teen parenting, and police brutality have now become, for far too many, part of everyday life.  And unfortunately, youth are left with few places to turn to for support, guidance, and leadership.  Social programs are being cut nationwide and many of those that haven’t are trapped in red tape and bureaucracy and their obligations to funders limit their flexibility, creativity, and ability to think outside the box.  However, these very qualities in combination with a sense of street smarts are needed to truly and effectively address the psychosocial conditions that today’s youth is up against. 

Built upon these qualities, the Urban Youth Empowerment Foundation (the Foundation) was created to improve the lives of youth affected by challenges specific to urban living.