Staff & Board
Staff & Board
Mentors &
Volunteers &
Mentors &
Volunteers &
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​Founding and Mission
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.
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.
Growth and 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
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.
Join Us
At Genesis Youth Foundation, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, no matter their background. Our story is one of resilience, empowerment, and hope—a testament to the power of community and the boundless potential of our youth. We invite you to join us on this journey, as we continue to create brighter futures for immigrant and refugee families in Iowa and beyond.