Youth Empowered to Prosper Inc

Youth Empowered to Prosper (YEP) was established as a 501(c)(3) organization in 2018 to develop the power, mindset, and skillset within youth to rise above challenges, chart a path to prosperity, and grow into leaders of a better world. In 2024 we empowered 270 youth ages 5 to 22 through mentorship and real-life learning experiences focused on character-building, education and leadership, financial literacy, uplifting others, and mental wellness. In 2024, YEP was honored to be nominated for the Hats Off Small Nonprofit Award. This is a testament to the organizations innovative programming, steadfast commitment to our community, and most importantly, to the students we advocate for. YEP also continues to be an accredited agency with NonProfits First, which helps the organization to strengthen its operations, foster collaboration, and ensure sustainability and impact. Our work is made possible by the support of dedicated volunteers, including mentors, keynote speakers, event planners, and our Board of Directors. We are also proud members of Palm Beach Countys Culture of Wellness Stewardship Investor Learning Lab, collaborating with partners such as BeWell PBC, Childrens Services Council of Palm Beach County and St. Lucie County, United Way PBC, the St. Lucie Roundtable and many others to transform the lives of our youth through various programs. Young Women Who Win Mentoring Program Young Women Who Win is a weekly one-to-one school-based mentorship program serving middle and high school girls in Title One schools across Palm Beach County. In 2024, the program expanded from three to five schoolsnow including Howell L. Watkins Middle School and Lake Worth High School. Out of 78 students, 66 were successfully matched with professional women volunteer mentors for a minimum of six months. A mentor-mentee relationship lasting at least six months allows time for deep, trusting relationships to form, enabling mentors to provide consistent guidance and support through ongoing academic, social, and emotional challenges. As a result, 57 of these long-term matches (86%) demonstrated increased coping and problem-solving skills, and 89.4% of our student matches are on track to graduate. Additionally, we introduced group mentoring sessions at each school as a valuable supplement to our one-to-one approach. Leveraging the Elements of Effective Practicea research-informed, practitioner-approved standardthe program ensures safe, high-quality mentoring relationships. Recognizing the heightened mental health challenges faced by our youth, YEPs mentorship training also incorporates the evidence-based Seeking Safety protocol. Dr. Amanda Davis, a licensed psychologist and YEPs Board Secretary, leads monthly training sessions to equip mentors with tools to address trials such as anxiety, addiction, and depression. By the end of 2024, we served 134 girls through mentorship that led to increased school attendance, resiliency, and academic achievement. Teen Leadership Program Teen Leadership PBC is an after-school program delivered on-site at various Title One high schools, designed to prepare students for life beyond high school. In 2024, we served 117 students, and the program experienced significant expansion: The Palm Beach Lakes HS Teen Leadership Program extended from a spring initiative to a full academic year, deepening student engagement. A dedicated program coordinator was appointed exclusively for Teen Leadership, enhancing support and program delivery. Innovative programming included participation in HADOa virtual, team-based game that blends augmented reality with real-world playchallenging students to improve communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. We expanded our Teen Leadership program to Howell L Watkins Middle school by incorporating the curriculum into their AVID teaching one full day per week with a focus on financial literacy and career and college readiness. A two-day college tour was organized for the high school students, with visits to the University of Miami, Florida International University, Palm Beach Atlantic University, and Palm Beach State College, broadening their post-secondary horizons. The program features keynote speakers, small group sessions, team building exercises, mock business interviews, inspirational workshops, and volunteer opportunities. Topics include leadership development, financial literacy, conflict resolution, college readiness, and public speaking. Students in YEPs Teen Leadership program had measurable improvements in life and leadership skills. Summer Connections Camp In the summer of 2024, YEP introduced a Summer Connections Camp designed to foster connections, encourage self-expression, and enhance communication among disconnected middle and high school students. The camp featured immersive field trips to museums and natural venues alongside life skills workshops, sewing lessons, and collaborative sessions with other organizations that provided fitness and cooking experiences. Throughout the camp, our students engaged in public speaking and poetry, both individually, in small groups, and as a large group. At the conclusion of the camp, each student shared their heartfelt poems. Many participants walked away with newfound friendships, a deeper interest in life skills, and a wealth of new knowledge and experiences. Kids in the City Academy Afterschool Program In the fall of 2024, YEP began its first on site afterschool program in St. Lucie County for children from kindergarten to 12th grade. The program offers educational enrichment, nurturing support, and a safe place to grow and develop. There is a focus on the whole child, from physical activity, mental wellness, creativity and character development. We believe that every child has a unique fingerprint designed as a successful catalyst for change. YEP takes pride in its partnerships through collective impact initiatives in Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties, leveraging the communitys network to better serve our youth. Through these efforts, Youth Empowered to Prosper cultivates a growth mindset in youth while equipping them with essential skillsets to help navigate their futures with confidence and resilience.