Youth Empowerment Project
HISTORY
In 2004, Dr. Henry Jarecki a philanthropist and resident in the BVI founded the Youth Empowerment Foundation. Together with Dr. Kedrick Pickering and other community minded individuals the design and implementation of YEP was born. On May 10th 2007, two years after breaking ground the YEP centre was opened and begin serving youth living on the eastern end of the island of Tortola. Initially it was anticipated having 40 children enrolled, however that number tripled within the first 6 weeks. Today YEP is the one of the longest running out-of-school time programs in the BVI.
YEP is a privately funded programme in the British Virgin Islands that opened in May of 2007. It is a safe haven that provides opportunities and activities, for young people. YEP currently has 135 active members, and we are currently seeking volunteers.
How We Are Helping
As listed in our goals we aim to provide a safe haven for children. This allows parents the peace of mind knowing their child is supervised and engaged. By providing opportunities that engage our yeppies during the critical after school and out-of-school times we ensure that they are not involved in youth related crimes and potentially harmful habits.
With thousands of youth between the ages of 8-15 in the territory (BVI census 2010), we are doing our part to reduce:
- Latchkey children
- Street gangs
- Youth related crime
- Loitering
- Drug abuse
- At-risk youth
What You Can Do
Support The Cause
We’re always looking for the community’s support to help push our campaign further than we could ever imagine. Does that sound like you? Volunteer today and be a part of change.
By Volunteering
Join our team of like-minded everyday people who simply want a better world to live in. Where every voice is heard, every hand is held, and every soul is equal. You’re invited to join our cause.