Youth development programs are key tools in promoting the black community engagement, which is a core feature of positive youth development. Youth development programs have been linked with higher academic performance in youth, prosociality and lower drug and alcohol use in youth.
We aim to prepare youth for adulthood and make a successful transition to living independently. We collaborate with partners and the community to launch projects that helps close opportunity gaps experienced by young people that face barriers to success. We use experiential learning that builds critical skills that impact future success including confidence, self-worth and self-efficacy. This service is provided as part of an integrated network of outreach services that are tailored and combined to meet the unique strengths, needs and circumstances of each youth and organization referred to us and their families. Through this developmental program, youth are encouraged to establish their own goals and to participate in developing their career and future plans.
With limited access to high quality education and co-curricular opportunities, these young people experience a critical gap in personal and academic development than can lead to decreased confidence, lower aspirations and a diminished sense of belonging.
At the Black Empowerment Unit, working with communities and partners, we offer children and youth a turning point. A critical moment of early intervention where we see the brilliant potential of each child and help them to see it for themselves through:
- Participating in educational programs, be inspired in school and graduate successfully
- Accessing employment programs, mentorship, and secure jobs
- Provide youth entrepreneurship direction
- Participating in social and recreational activities
- Accessing the support of a mentor
- Managing their day-to-day responsibilities through partnership with community youth organizations
- Connecting to resources and supports
- Securing safe and stable housing
- Participating in events that provide positive and mutual peer support
