Ferguson Youth Initiative

The Ferguson Youth Initiative (FYI) empowers teens in Ferguson and the surrounding communities to become positive, productive and contributing members of their communities by giving them a voice and the tools to lead. From academic support for younger students to professional licensing for young adults, we provide a continuous pathway for success.

New for Summer 2026: Workforce & Tech Initiatives

We are expanding our impact this summer with two groundbreaking programs designed to bridge the opportunity gap:

• Career Pathways & Professional Licensing: We are equipping teens with the "keys to the kingdom" by assisting them in earning recognizable credentials and licenses. Our summer cohort focuses on high-demand careers including Real Estate, Carpentry, and Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDL).

• AI & Future Tech Lab: To ensure our youth are not left behind in the digital revolution, we’ve launched a summer intensive focused on Artificial Intelligence and Coding. Teens learn the mechanics of AI and software development, preparing them for the careers of tomorrow.

Our Proven Track Record

While we build for the future, we continue to strengthen our foundational programs:

• Impactful Tutoring: Our academic support program has successfully served 200 youth (3rd – 8th grade), providing the essential literacy and math foundations needed to thrive in high school and beyond.

• Leadership & Advocacy: Through the Ferguson Youth Advisory Board, local teens gain a seat at the table, advising city leadership and developing community-wide solutions.

• Next Steps: We continue to provide comprehensive college and career prep, from resume building to scholarship applications, for teens ages 15–19.

Invest in the Future of North County

Your Give STL Day donation helps us cover the costs of licensing fees, carpentry tools, and tech equipment for our summer programs. Join us in providing Ferguson youth with the credentials and skills they need to build a prosperous future.