Youth Empowerment Program
Mentoring Youth to Rise, Lead, and Thrive
At AfriThrive, we know that young people are the future, and we’re committed to ensuring that the future is bright. Our Youth Empowerment Program (YEP!) was created to uplift and equip low-income Black youth with the tools they need to lead, thrive, and transform their communities.
Why it Matters
Many of our youth face unique challenges, from navigating identity to accessing academic support and envisioning future careers. We walk alongside them at every step—from the transition to middle school through to high school graduation and college preparation.
We don’t just focus on academics. We build confidence. We nurture leadership. We create safe spaces where youth are encouraged to grow into changemakers.
Program Features
From the first day of middle school to the last test of senior year, our youth have access to:
Academic Mentoring: One-on-one and small group support to build better study habits, manage school transitions, and improve test performance.
College and Career Readiness: Real talk about scholarships, financial aid, internships, career paths, and access to professionals and mentors who’ve walked the path.
Life Skills Workshops: Conflict resolution, public speaking, digital literacy, financial basics, and leadership development, all taught through a culturally grounded lens.
Rooted in Culture. Powered by Connection.
Our youth don’t have to leave their culture at the door. We center their identity and heritage in everything we do., from storytelling circles to community projects that honor their African roots and lived realities. We build belonging.
Each student becomes part of a supportive network of peers and mentors who understand their journey. This isn’t just a program. It’s a village.
Designed to Change Outcomes
YEP was built for impact—measurable, meaningful change:
Higher graduation and college enrollment rates
Increased self-confidence and leadership capacity
Stronger mental wellness through belonging and support
Greater community engagement and service participation
When we pour into youth today, we shift the trajectory of families, neighborhoods, and entire communities tomorrow.
- We help students boost their grades, build better study habits, and feel confident navigating school transitions.
- We help youth explore careers, plan for college, and connect with mentors who reflect their values and dreams.
- We help young people develop life skills, step into leadership roles, and use their voice to create change.
- We help youth build identity, community, and a strong sense of belonging in a space that honors who they are.
Help Us Build Brighter Futures
$23,756
Goal : $50,000
Your gift goes beyond the classroom. When you donate to AfriThrive’s Youth Empowerment Program, you invest in a future where Black youth are not just resilient—they are empowered to lead, innovate, and thrive.
Your donation provides:
Free academic support and tutoring
Access to college prep resources
Cultural enrichment activities
Life-changing mentorship and leadership opportunities
Every dollar you give helps a young person feel seen, supported, and unstoppable.
Want to bring our Youth Program to your neighborhood or school?
Reach out to our team to learn more about partnership opportunities.
Who Can Join
The Youth Empowerment Program is open to Black and immigrant youth in Montgomery, Baltimore, and Prince George’s Counties. Most of our participants are the first in their families to attend college or pursue formal mentorship. Many have faced barriers to academic success. All are capable of greatness.
F. A. Q's
Get Involved, Get Informed
Everything You Need to Know About AfriThrive’s Healthy Food Programs and How You Can Help Families Grow and Thrive.
AfriThrive’s Healthy Food Our program is open to Black and immigrant youth in grades 6–12 living in Montgomery County, Baltimore County, and Prince George’s County. Priority is given to youth from low-income households and those without access to consistent academic mentorship.
We center culture, identity, and community in every interaction. Our program doesn’t just prepare youth for tests—it prepares them for life. With a focus on leadership, heritage, and healing, we guide youth to become confident, community-minded changemakers.
No. Thanks to the generous support of donors and community partners, the Youth Empowerment Program is completely free to all enrolled students.
Students participate in academic mentoring, leadership development, college and career exploration, cultural enrichment, and community service projects. We also host workshops, field trips, and youth-led events throughout the year.
Yes. We welcome volunteer groups from schools, businesses, faith-based groups, and community organizations. Just let us know in advance so we can coordinate your visit.
You can sign up online at www.afrithrive.org/youth or email us at [email protected] to request an enrollment packet.
By signing up to volunteer with AfriThrive, you agree to the following terms and conditions. These guidelines are designed to ensure the safety, well-being, and dignity of all volunteers, staff, and community members we serve.
1. Eligibility
Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age.
Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or authorized adult.
Group volunteers must designate a group leader responsible for coordinating with AfriThrive staff.
2. Conduct Expectations
Treat all participants, fellow volunteers, and staff with respect, compassion, and professionalism.
Refrain from discriminatory language, harassment, or any form of misconduct.
Follow instructions from AfriThrive staff and team leads at all times.
Maintain the confidentiality and privacy of any personal information shared during your service.
3. Health and Safety
Volunteers must be in good health and free from any contagious illness on the day of their shift.
Volunteers may be asked to wear gloves, closed-toe shoes, or follow additional safety guidelines depending on the activity.
In the event of an emergency, AfriThrive staff will provide guidance and respond accordingly.
4. Waiver and Release
By volunteering, you agree to hold harmless AfriThrive, its staff, partners, and representatives from any liability, claims, or demands arising out of your participation in volunteer activities. You understand that volunteering may involve physical activity and assume all risk of injury or loss.
5. Media Release
AfriThrive may take photos or videos during volunteer activities. By participating, you grant permission for your image to be used in promotional materials, unless you notify us in writing prior to your volunteer date.
6. Cancellations and No-Shows
If you are unable to attend your scheduled volunteer shift, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance. Repeated no-shows may affect your ability to volunteer in the future.
We welcome adult mentors, guest speakers, tutors, and supporters. Visit our Get Involved page to learn how you can contribute your time or expertise.
AfriThrive welcomes a variety of donations that help us support families, promote food equity, and grow sustainable solutions in our communities. Here’s how you can give:
1. Monetary Donations
Financial contributions are the most flexible and impactful way to support our work. They help us purchase fresh produce, maintain our mobile pantry, run educational programs, and respond to urgent needs.
Donate securely at: www.afrithrive.org
2. In-Kind Food Donations
We accept non-expired, unopened items that align with our mission to provide healthy and culturally relevant foods. This may include:
Fresh produce
Shelf-stable grains (rice, maize meal, beans)
Canned fruits and vegetables (low sodium preferred)
Culturally significant items like plantains, cassava flour, or African spices
Note: We do not accept perishable meat, alcohol, or expired goods.
3. Supplies and Equipment
We're always in need of items that support our operations, such as:
Reusable grocery bags
Gardening tools and gloves
Compost bins
Cooking demonstration supplies
Children’s books or materials for school programs
4. Services and Expertise
We encourage professionals who can offer services, such as nutritionists, translators, graphic designers, educators, or farmers, to contact us. Your skills help us grow smarter and stronger.
No, AfriThrive does not currently operate a shelter. However, we are actively working toward expanding our impact. We’ve launched a capital campaign to renovate a community building that will serve as a central hub for our food distribution, education, and family support services. While it won’t function as a shelter, this space will provide vital resources, workshops, and a safe, welcoming environment for families in need.
If you'd like to support this vision, we welcome donations to our capital campaign. Together, we can build a space that empowers families to grow, heal, and thrive.