(515) 219-7428
info@GenesisYouthFoundation.org
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About Us

Founding & Mission

Making the world a better place

Genesis Youth Foundation (GYF) was founded in 2009 with a simple yet powerful mission: to level the playing field for immigrant and refugee youth and their families in Iowa. Our journey began when our co-founders, Sam and Tricia Gabriel, recognized the unique challenges faced by these communities. As immigrants themselves, they experienced firsthand the difficulties of adapting to a new culture while trying to thrive in an unfamiliar environment. Inspired by their own struggles and successes, they set out to create a safe, nurturing space where children and families could receive the support they needed to succeed.

Growth & Programs

From humble beginnings in a small community space, GYF has grown into a dynamic organization offering a wide range of programs designed to empower youth and families. Our focus areas include academic support, leadership development, cultural enrichment, performing and digital arts, and athletics, with a strong emphasis on soccer through our Genesis Football Club. Over the years, we have impacted thousands of lives, helping young people discover their potential, stay connected to their cultural roots, and achieve their dreams.

Future Vision

Future Vision In 2025, we are embarking on an exciting new chapter with the launch of the Genesis Youth Foundation Learning Center. This dedicated space will provide enhanced educational opportunities, vocational training, and vital resources to support our families’ long-term success. Our vision is to create a hub where the next generation of leaders can flourish, supported by a community that believes in their potential.

Ubuntu Leadership Academy
From humble beginnings in a small community space, GYF has grown into a dynamic organization offering a wide range of programs designed to empower youth and families. Our focus areas include academic support, leadership development, cultural enrichment, performing and digital arts, and athletics, with a strong emphasis on soccer through our Genesis Football Club. Over the years, we have impacted thousands of lives, helping young people discover their potential, stay connected to their cultural roots, and achieve their dreams.

Fuel our future vision with your support. Every donation makes a difference.

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Ubuntu Leadership children learning at a table
children learning at table

How we do it?

Education
We believe education unlocks potential and creates pathways for opportunity. Our academic programs equip students with the skills and confidence to excel.
  • Personalized support helps students achieve academic success and build lifelong learning habits.
  • We offer STEM workshops, reading support, and leadership development tailored to individual learning needs.
  • We provide personalized learning paths and track student progress in core subjects
Developing Leaders
GYF instills servant leadership principles in youth, preparing them to create positive change in their communities.
  • Through training and real-world projects, students learn servant leadership skills inspired by global leaders.
  • Students design and lead community projects, advocacy campaigns, and cultural celebrations.
Fostering Cultural Pride through the Arts
We celebrate and preserve the cultural heritage of immigrant and refugee families by integrating the arts into everything we do.
  • Programs like gospel singing, Afrobeats dance, praise dance, and traditional performances allow youth to express themselves and connect with their roots.
  • Classes teach the art of African cooking, bridging generations and sharing cultural heritage with the broader community.
  • Students learn creative skills like graphic design, photography, and video editing, merging tradition with innovation.
  • Our Sewing Seeds for the Future program teaches practical sewing skills while exploring traditional African textiles and designs.
Promoting Athletic and Personal Growth
GYF’s Genesis FC soccer program builds teamwork, discipline, and leadership through athletic excellence.
  • Competitive Soccer Teams: Youth participate in leagues and tournaments, learning life skills on and off the field.
  • Next Move Youth League: Small-sided games offer fun, fast-paced opportunities to develop technical soccer skills.
  • Athletic Leadership: Coaches are trained to mentor players, emphasizing sportsmanship and community values.

Addressing Digital Equity

We bridge the digital divide to ensure every family has access to technology and training.
  • Youth and adults receive IT and digital marketing certifications to enhance career prospects.
  • Families gain essential skills to navigate the digital world confidently.
  • Families are provided with laptops and connectivity support, ensuring no one is left behind.

Supporting Families Holistically

Strong families are the backbone of thriving communities. GYF offers tailored support to ensure families can flourish together.
  • Transportation Services: Affordable transportation enables families to access education, healthcare, and community programs.
  • Parental Engagement: Parents are active participants in programming, serving on committees and contributing to cultural events.
  • Safe Haven Homes: Our vision includes creating secure housing for vulnerable youth and families in need.

Our People

The people who make things happen in our company and who believe and build the future.

Dan Seemuth

BOARD PRESIDENT

email Dan
Pastor Brian Brown

VICE PRESIDENT

email Pastor Brian
Jamesetta Mator

SECRETARY

email Jamesetta
John Bunz

BOARD MEMBER

email John
Jacob Hicks

FUNDRAISING

email Jacob
Sam Gabriel

CO-FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

email Sam
Tricia Gabriel

CO-FOUNDER & PROGRAM DIRECTOR

email Tricia
Arina Tembo

ADMINISTRATOR

email Arina
Eliza Sackie

YOUTH SUCCESS COORDINATOR

email Eliza

​​Platinum Partners

($50,000+ in annual contributions or equivalent in-kind support)

​​Gold Partners

($25,000–$49,999
annually)

​​Silver Partners

($10,000–$24,999 annually)

​​Bronze Partners

($5,000–$9,999 annually)

​​Community Partners

(In-kind support, volunteers, joint programs)
START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY

Reach out for more information or to enroll in one of our programs. 

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