Staff & Board
Staff & Board
Mentors &
Volunteers &
Mentors &
Volunteers &
Lorem Ipsum Dolar
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
.jpg)
Who We Are
We are a vibrant nonprofit organization committed to empowering immigrant and refugee families in Iowa by creating pathways for success in education, leadership, sports, and cultural preservation. Since its inception, GYF has been a cornerstone for underserved communities, offering innovative programs and a safe, supportive environment where youth and their families can thrive.
At GYF, we believe in the transformative power of opportunity and community. Our mission goes beyond providing services; we strive to inspire hope, foster resilience, and cultivate leaders who will make meaningful contributions to society. Through holistic, culturally relevant programming, we address the unique challenges faced by immigrant and refugee families, leveling the playing field so every child has the chance to realize their full potential.
Our approach is deeply rooted in community collaboration, ensuring that families are not only participants in our programs but active partners in shaping their outcomes. By building bridges between cultures and fostering mutual understanding, we help families navigate their new environment while celebrating their heritage.
From afterschool programs that boost academic achievement to soccer leagues that teach teamwork and discipline, from arts initiatives that embrace cultural pride to leadership academies that inspire civic engagement, GYF equips youth with the tools to excel in every aspect of their lives. By empowering parents and guardians alongside their children, we strengthen entire families, creating ripple effects that benefit the larger community.
What Sets Us Apart
We celebrate and preserve the rich heritages of immigrant and refugee families, integrating cultural pride into every program. By embracing their identities, we empower youth to confidently navigate and contribute to a multicultural society.
GYF takes a comprehensive approach to development, addressing educational needs, leadership training, athletic excellence, and family support in an interconnected way. Our programs foster growth in all areas of life, ensuring youth and their families are prepared to succeed.
We help immigrant and refugee families transition into their new lives in Iowa, providing tools, resources, and connections that ease their integration while fostering an understanding and appreciation of their unique stories within the broader community.
Through servant leadership programs, digital equity initiatives, and workforce readiness training, GYF prepares youth for the future. We empower them not only to succeed but to become changemakers who uplift others.
Our partnerships with schools, businesses, community organizations, and local government create a powerful network of support. Together, we amplify our impact, ensuring no family is left behind.
How We Do It
We empower immigrant and refugee families by providing a holistic approach to education, leadership, athletics, cultural pride, and the arts. Through strategic programming, community partnerships, and a deep commitment to inclusivity, we ensure youth and their families have the tools they need to thrive. Here's how we do it:
Empowering Through 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.
Building a Sustainable Future Through the Arts and Community
We focus on long-term impact, integrating the arts and cultural preservation into strategic initiatives.
-
Efforts to establish a Learning Center that includes dedicated spaces for performing and visual arts.
-
Events like the "Ubuntu Leadership Summit" and “I Am Africa Gala” celebrate cultural diversity while fostering cross-cultural understanding.
-
Youth develop confidence and leadership by organizing and performing at community arts showcases.
