YEDA’s Impact in the Community
Building Bridges to Success
YEDA empowers youth and families through dynamic programs, fostering growth in education, fitness, mentorship, and community collaboration. From opening doors to scholarship opportunities to developing athletic abilities and bringing mentorship to the Southland, YEDA's impact is transforming lives and strengthening our community
Youth Highlights
Anna Walker
Anna’s growth is a testament to how vital YEDA is for the community. The support and mentorship she received have made a definite impact on her confidence, helping her excel both academically and athletically. She is a Principal Scholar, two-time Silver State Spell Bowl Champion, Academic Bowl participant, Student Council member, and part of the National Junior Honor Society. Beyond the classroom, she has become a more complete athlete, competing in Karate, Cross Country, Track, and Softball. YEDA’s influence has empowered Anna to embrace new challenges, develop a solution-oriented mindset, and strive for excellence in all she pursues.
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Dilan
Dilan’s journey with YEDA reflects the program’s powerful impact on confidence, leadership, and personal growth. He has maintained an above-average GPA and was recently invited to Boston to receive an Award of Excellence for Future Medical Leaders in Summer 2025. His communication skills have drastically improved, and he now confidently takes the initiative to engage with peers, coaches, and others. YEDA’s mentorship has encouraged positive, judgment-free communication, fostering self-reflection and accountability. Already mindful of nutrition, Dilan has deepened his understanding of fueling his body for performance. His willingness to step out of his comfort zone continues to grow.
Harlem Owens
Harlem’s journey with YEDA has been one of growth, leadership, and new experiences. Over the past four years, he has developed confidence both on and off the court, forming strong bonds with teammates and mentors. His participation in travel basketball introduced him to valuable life skills like planning, time management, and navigating new environments. Through YEDA’s year-round programs, Harlem stays active, focused, and engaged in his physical and mental well-being. His involvement has instilled leadership, accountability, and a fearless approach to new challenges.
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Creating Lasting Impact
YEDA is committed to empowering youth and families through education, fitness, mentorship, and community-driven programs. Over the years, we have developed and supported a wide range of initiatives designed to inspire growth, build leadership skills, and create opportunities for success.
Click each button below to learn more about the programs and initiatives we're involved in and how YEDA is making a difference.
Community
Community is the cornerstone of YEDA. We have established extensive networks with local businesses and organizations to provide comprehensive support for our youth. Our annual Back2School event exemplifies this commitment, bringing together local resources and distributing over 400 backpacks filled with school supplies to children in need. We believe in proactive engagement, standing up for our youth, and fostering an environment where they can thrive. We invite you to join us in our mission to deliver enriching learning experiences, promote positive lifestyle choices, and equip youth with the skills needed to succeed.
By adopting a brand voice that is empowering, supportive, and community-focused, YEDA can effectively convey its dedication to nurturing the potential of every child through education, mentorship, fitness, and community engagement
Community Items
Birth2Five Collaboration
YEDA took part in the May 29, 2025, Region 1-B-C Community Meeting, an excellent opportunity to bring families and community partners together to share resources and connect around what matters most: supporting young children and their caregivers. It was a welcoming space full of conversation, collaboration, and new ideas for working better together.
Partnership with PF/RP Safe Summer Program
YEDA is proud to support local community initiatives through partnerships like the one with the Park Forest Richton Park Neighborhood Network Safe Summer Program, where we provided soccer training to help create positive, active experiences for youth. Efforts like these reflect YEDA’s broader goal of fostering positive development, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and creating safe spaces for young people to grow and thrive. We look forward to continuing our work with partners who are equally committed to making a lasting impact in our communities.
Returning Citizen Support
Partnered with REFORM Alliance and Defy Ventures to provide resources and support to returning citizens, extending YEDA’s reach into broader community needs.
Stone Soup Workshop
Partnering with Birth to Five Illinois and BBBS, YEDA hosted a community-wide event, uniting stakeholders to create a stronger, more connected community
Car Wash Fundraiser
A summer 2024 fundraising event in partnership with the Rich Township Fire Department, featuring YEDA youth participants and parents working together to support youth programs.
The Power of Youth Mentorship
Youth Highlights
Ivan Sampson III (Tré)
Tré's growth through YEDA has been remarkable, both on and off the court. His confidence in his skills has soared, leading to more structured ball movements and a stronger presence in the game. Beyond basketball, he’s developed leadership, brotherhood, and a focus on personal growth. He now speaks up, listens more, and prioritizes challenges with a clear mindset. His dedication to fitness, including making his own protein shakes, reflects his commitment to overall well-being. Tré’s journey embodies YEDA’s impact.
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Iniko Hogan
Iniko “Niko” Hogan began his YEDA journey at just 9 years old as a quiet young man eager to grow. While he started with basketball training, he quickly embraced YEDA’s broader programs, shaping both his education and character. Over the years, he’s honed his skills on the court while developing leadership, confidence, and lifelong friendships. YEDA has provided him with invaluable experiences, equipping him with the tools to succeed both in sports and in life.
Stacy Jefferson
Stacy’s growth with YEDA has been remarkable. He has become more outgoing, stepping into leadership roles when needed and ensuring new teammates feel welcomed. His athletic performance allows him to play up a grade, carrying himself with a maturity beyond his years. Playing travel ball keeps him prepared for the school season, and he actively seeks out training opportunities in the community. YEDA’s mentorship has helped him channel his aggression and approach challenges with composure. His drive to play basketball at a high level continues to grow, with aspirations to compete through high school and beyond.
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Recently Recognized
The Community Partner Award
We are proud to share that YEDA was recently honored by Mentoring Youth Through Technology (MYTT) with the Community Partner Award at MYTT’s 12th Anniversary Gala, held on June 6, 2025.
This recognition celebrates our ongoing partnership with MYTT and our shared commitment to empowering youth through access to technology, mentorship, and educational opportunities.
We believe that when organizations come together with a common purpose to inspire and equip the next generation, the impact is transformative. We are grateful to MYTT for this honor, and we remain dedicated to supporting young people in building the skills, confidence, and pathways they need to succeed in an ever-evolving world.
During the event, our founder, Greg Ellison, accepted the award on behalf of the YEDA team and expressed gratitude for this recognition and the collaborative spirit of the MYTT community.
