Young Men United

"I never really knew what I was going to do in life. YMU helped me see my own future and shaped who I am today.”

–Jaheid, YMU participant

Your donation to our Young Men United program helps close gaps in education and earning power for young men of color right here in Baltimore.

What it does:

• Creates strong pathways to opportunity and access through academic support, mentorship, and college and career exploration
• Helps hundreds of local young men of color complete high school, higher education or job training, and enter the workforce with a meaningful career that aligns with their talents and dreams 
• Creates a community of young men who support one another now, and in the future

What our students say:

• "It's a brotherhood. We all respect each other and work together to achieve our goals.”
• "The best part of the program is the mentorship. They’re guiding us through school and teaching us life skills.”
•  "I’m the first one of my mom’s kids to go to college. I really want to do my mother proud. I want her to see me successful in life so I can give back to her for what she’s done for me.”

Proven Results: 

• 95% high school graduation rate for the first cohort, compared to only 71% for other Baltimore City students
• 74% college acceptance rate in its first year—a rate that takes similar programs years to achieve
• 100% of students said the program’s services meets their needs
• 100% reported increased self-confidence as well as a better school experience