YEP, USA
Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) helps high-risk youth get a taste of working life, gain self-confidence and learn new skills through a complete employment readiness programme.
27
participants successfully completed the training in 2020
21
programme graduates obtained employment in 2020
Read the story of Tyrell, YEP’s programme participant
Tyrell, a beneficiary of the programme, had to grow up quickly. Having become a caregiver to her younger siblings as well as more senior family members at an early age, she was also subjected to frequent home moves, which disrupted her schooling. Now based in New Orleans, where she cares for her great grandmother, Tyrell was offered a lifeline through YEP’s Work & Learn programme. Here she earned her high school equivalency diploma, graduating earlier than she would have at her previous school. While skills training has provided a springboard for Tyrell’s professional development, she highlights the emotional support provided by YEP as being invaluable. “I know it’s not just me here,” she says. “I can ask anybody for help. We all have an understanding, and we’ve built a relationship with each other.” Tyrell is now enrolled at Delgado Community College studying Business and Management, while working as a part-time sales associate at YEP Thrift Works. Crucially, Tyrell is enjoying making her own contribution to the programme that nurtured her by mentoring other young YEP participants.
