Our Mission
Youth Reaching Unlocked Narratives (Y.R.U.N.) empowers youth in underserved communities via mentoring, to develop leadership capabilities, confidence and character building, acquire real world skills, create inclusiveness, rewrite their futures, become changemakers, and give back with pride.
Youth on a Mission
What does this all mean?
Statistics show that in Jefferson County, AL, 16% of residents live below the federal poverty line, with 26.3% of children under 18 living in poverty. Of these, 37.8% of people that have not earned a high school diploma live at or below poverty level.
In many of these situations, the youth are underserved and do not have the proper tools and insight to set them up for a successful future. Y.R.U.N. helps youth to understand that there is growth and life outside of what they may see or experience. We foster hope, in sometimes hopeless situations. We help to prepare them for the real world by partnering with local high schools to educate them on creating a vision for their futures and a step-by-step to get there.
We also partner with residents and local businesses to catapult our program. Donations from people like you help to make this program a success. It funds supplies, food, safe activities, field trips, and much more!
We are looking forward to partnering with you to ensure the success of the youth in our program, both now and years to come.
Program Initiatives
"Your Story Matters"
Oftentimes, young ladies and gentlemen do not feel heard, or know how to effectively express themselves; whether it is at home, school, or work. We help students to identify opportunities for growth by developing a story and learning how to navigate it to help effectively shape their futures. We also foster an inclusive environment where everyone is seen and heard, and not judged.
"Money Matters"
"Your pocket must have a hole in it." We have likely all heard this from someone. It was usually because once we received money, we spend it. Y.R.U.N. helps students learn about earning and navigating money matters and effective solutions for managing it.
"Communication is Key"
Not knowing how to effectively communicate can equate to life or death. Our program teaches youth how to communicate effectively to de-escalate and navigate situations that could otherwise turn out to be detrimental These situations include home, work, and school environments.