WHY DO WE DO WHAT WE DO? (IDEOLOGIES)

YouthBuild

"YouthBuild believes that the goals, dreams, and aspirations of every young person are real...Every young person possesses the potential to become a community leader and should have the opportunity to reach their full potential."

I truly believe this statement and hope to embody it in my daily life. I view youth as seeds, full of potential, waiting to be nurtured, encouraged, and watered so they can grow into beautiful, thriving gardens. Every young person has unique dreams and aspirations that deserve to be recognized and supported. As youth workers, we have the privilege and responsibility to help fuel those dreams, providing the tools and guidance they need to succeed. When we invest in young people and believe in their abilities, we empower them to see themselves as capable leaders who can create meaningful change in their communities. It’s not just about teaching or mentoring—it’s about walking alongside them as they discover their strengths and reach for their full potential. Their success is a reflection of the collective effort of communities that believe in their worth and possibilities.

FabNewport

FabNewport is 501(c)3 non-profit whose mission is to ensure youth have equitable access to the opportunities, resources and relationships so they can thrive today and in the future. Our vision is that all learners will have the competencies, confidence and commitment to positively impact their communities and realize their positive future visions.

FabNewport’s mission resonates deeply with me because equity and access are critical for ensuring all youth have the opportunity to thrive. When students are provided with the resources, relationships, and programs they need, they flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. I believe all students, regardless of learning ability, deserve access to high-quality education and engaging experiences that inspire them. I especially love FabNewport’s emphasis on 'positive future visions'—helping young people see that they can and will have a bright future is incredibly powerful. It equips them with the confidence to dream big and the motivation to achieve those dreams. Additionally, fostering healthy relationships is more important than ever. Youth need their peers for support and connection, but they also need positive, supportive adults who guide and encourage them along their journey. It’s through these meaningful relationships that young people develop the competencies and confidence to create lasting impacts in their communities.

New Urban Arts

NUA’s student-led approach to learning enables young people to discover their power and develop agency...We believe that when we engage in relationships and environments that make us feel safe to be and become ourselves, our creativity and well-being flourish. By relaxing, making, teaching, and learning in community with each other, we expand our sense of what’s possible.

NUA’s student-led approach highlights the importance of young people developing their own agency—a critical component of growth and empowerment. When youth are encouraged to design a plan for their needs and are fully supported, the possibilities are endless. I especially appreciate how this philosophy acknowledges the arts as a vital part of education and personal development. Too often, society overlooks the arts, dismissing their importance, yet countless studies show how transformative they can be for young people. The arts provide a unique outlet for youth to express their thoughts and emotions, exploring life, society, and culture in ways words alone often cannot. There’s something profoundly powerful about artists gathering in a space where creativity flourishes—it’s a reminder of how the arts can cultivate connection and inspire innovation. When young people are given the tools to harness their creativity, they truly have the potential to shake the earth and leave a lasting impact."