The Youth Empowerment & Stability Foundation
The Youth Empowerment & Stability Foundation is a grassroots nonprofit launching in 2026 with a mission to empower young people to achieve self-sufficiency, resilience, and meaningful participation in their communities.
Founded in Cuyahoga County, the YES Foundation is built on lived experience, community partnership, and a commitment to uplifting youth and young adults—especially those who are system-impacted, at risk, or navigating barriers to stability.
As a new organization, we recognize the urgent need for accessible opportunities, supportive pathways, and real representation for young people within local systems.
Our work addresses social, civic, educational, and emotional needs through programs that build leadership, increase stability, and strengthen community connections.
Our approach centers on three core pillars: Empowerment, Stability, and Community.
Mission
The Youth Empowerment & Stability Foundation’s mission is to empower young people to achieve self-sufficiency, resilience, and meaningful participation in their communities by providing accessible programs, supportive connections, and opportunities for leadership and personal growth.
Vision
The YES Foundation envisions a community where every young person—regardless of background or circumstance—has equitable access to opportunity, stability, and support, enabling them to thrive, lead, and shape the future of Cuyahoga County and beyond.
Values
Empowerment: We elevate youth voice, build confidence, and create opportunities for young people to express their leadership.
Stability: We provide supportive pathways and resources that help youth build sustainable, secure, and healthy lives.
Equity: We commit to fairness, inclusion, and ensuring every young person has access to what they need to succeed.
Resilience: We honor the strength young people carry and help them build tools to overcome adversity and grow through challenges.
Integrity: We lead with honesty, transparency, and accountability in every relationship and community partnership.
Community: We believe change happens through collective effort and meaningful connections between youth, leaders, and local systems.
Programs
Our core programs include: Mentoring & Coaching, Workforce Readiness, Leadership Lab, Education Re-engagement, and Housing & Basic Needs Navigation. Each pathway offers personalized support to help young people set goals and move forward.
Impact
Last year, we served hundreds of youth with 1:1 coaching, placed program graduates in jobs and internships, and connected families to essential resources. We measure progress in education, employment, housing stability, and leadership growth.
Success Stories
Read how youth turned challenges into milestones through mentoring, training, and community support.
Resource Directories
Youth Resource Directory
• Housing & crisis support — call for intake
• Education & GED — tutoring & re-engagement programs
• Employment & training — job readiness and placement
• Mental health & counseling — youth-focused providers
• Food assistance — pantries and meal sites
Community Resource Directory
• Legal aid & records relief
• Healthcare & clinics
• Family supports & childcare
• Transportation assistance
• Financial coaching & tax prep