Empowering Youth: Vaun’s Journey with YEP

Many young people face tough challenges, especially if they’ve lost a parent or struggled in school. For 17-year-old Clevaun (Vaun), life hadn’t been easy. But thanks to Safer Foundation’s Youth Empowerment Program (YEP), Vaun found the support he needed to take control of his future and succeed.

What is the Youth Empowerment Program (YEP)?

The Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) at Safer Foundation in the Quad Cities is designed to support young people aged 16-20 who have faced challenges in traditional school settings and have been referred by Juvenile Court Services. YEP provides educational assistance, helping students prepare for and pass their High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) while also supporting them with essential life and career skills. By offering six class sessions throughout the year, YEP gives young people a second chance to succeed in school and life.

YEP actively reduces the challenges that lead to dropping out of school or getting caught in the criminal justice system. With a strong commitment to reducing recidivism and providing opportunities, YEP is changing the lives of disenfranchised youth who might otherwise struggle to find a path forward.

Perseverance: Pushing Through Obstacles

After his father passed away, Vaun was left without much support or guidance. On top of that, he didn’t have reliable transportation, making it hard to attend school regularly. Despite these challenges, Vaun joined YEP in the first session of the new fiscal year. The YEP staff made sure he had a way to get to class every day, and Vaun didn’t miss a single day of the 32-day program. He worked hard and even stayed late some days to make sure he could earn his high school equivalency diploma (HSED) before the session ended.

Confidence: Finding His Potential

During YEP’s Future-Focus week, Vaun practiced interviewing with real employers like Kraft-Heinz and Russell Construction. He showed up prepared, dressed professionally, and impressed the people he met. This experience helped Vaun believe in himself and realize that others believed in him too. YEP didn’t just help him with school—it gave him the confidence to succeed in life.

Success: A Bright Future Ahead

By the end of the program, Vaun had earned his HSED, a huge accomplishment that opened up new opportunities for him and his future family. He’s expecting a child soon, and now he’s ready to provide for them. Vaun has also accepted a job with Amazon, a big step toward building a stable future.

In Vaun’s own words, “Man, YEP has the best staff for real. Always there when you need them. You’re guaranteed to succeed.”

Vaun’s story shows how the Youth Empowerment Program is helping young people overcome big challenges, build their confidence, and take charge of their futures.

Help Us Create More Success Stories

Vaun’s journey is just one example of the difference YEP can make. By supporting Safer Foundation’s Youth Empowerment Program, you can help other young people overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. Donate today to be a part of our mission to create brighter futures for all.