Community of Unity

Our Youth Empowerment Leadership Community (YELC) programs support the development of communities where individuals are empowered to make good choices. COMMUNITY OF UNITY’S innovative approach to youth development is the foundation of a broad range of programming delivered in different environments and through different means to support youth in the way they need it; some students are supported by after-school programs, while others need part-time or full-time boarding, and others attend schools whose systems, structures, and staff are supported by our methodology. Current programs include:

YELC In & After-School: The YELC is a gender-specific in & after-school program where youth experience personal growth and identity development through the power of sharing with peers, building community and engaging in behaviors that lead to success in school and beyond.

YELC Masters: This program provides on-going support and leadership development for high school graduates to maintain the positive connections and practices they have developed in The YELC. The YELC Masters are exposed to jobs, mentorship’s, internships, cultural experiences, financial literacy, and annual retreats focused on college, career, and personal development.

Some of these opportunities include:

• Participating in a panel discussion at Emory University’s Consultation on Youth and Practical Matter in Theology
• An internship with textile manufacturer Bart Halpern, Inc.
• Facilitation of a photography program for YELC at New Design High School
• Scholarships to attend the Face to Face / Faith to Faith youth camp through Auburn Seminary

YELC School Culture Support: School culture is: THE WAY WE DO THINGS AROUND HERE.

COMMUNITY of UNITY works intimately with school communities to create, implement and sustain authentic culture that supports success inside the classroom and out, with systems, programs, and community expectations that are aligned with its mission.

COMMUNITY of UNITY has been providing Professional Development services to schools and youth programs since 2001. Our programs, trainings, and workshops have reached over 135 New York City public schools, 15,000 youth and their families, and over 1000 educators and human service professionals.

Every school is different—different missions, different populations, different personalities, and different histories. Therefore each school requires diverse solutions. Our work helps schools create a clear, consistent, and enthusiastically communicated school culture that impacts:

• Advisory Programs: Legitimize the idea that advisory acts as a school’s core where students build relationships, challenge themselves socially and emotionally, and explore the meaning and purpose behind academic achievement.
• Leadership Development: Enable school leaders to develop and sustain programs and systems that that drive the school towards the accomplishment of a learning driven environment.
• Staff Training: Help staff to build real relationships of support and safety with students, their families, professional peers and administration.
• Community/Family Involvement: Facilitate the co-creation of a community that supports and celebrates individual and group achievement and growth where families can become constructive collaborators in their children’s’ education.