What would it look like if school communities and families embraced difference and created a culture of inclusivity? 

“Power in diversity is so important, and listening to opposing or different viewpoints is so enriching if we can drop our wrong/right biases, and communicate with common purpose.”– Miami-Dade County School Teacher

Earlier this spring, YES Institute applied for a Local Impact Grant from the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation, which seeks to support organizations strengthening our communities. We are grateful to be a recipient of this year’s Youth Education & Empowerment grant investing in our Inclusive Futures programming. 

Our Inclusive Futures programs provides an opportunity for education and discovery on gender, orientation, race, and communication. These dialogues also feature a volunteer speaker that connects the audience with their lived experience on the topic. Each session closes with participants identifying actions to create safe and more welcoming environments.

“Thank you for the definitions and information you provided. I think it gives us a common language and starting point as we embark on this work together.”  –  School Personnel

“The presentation was way more informative and useful for me as an educator and parent than I thought it would be going into it. Thank you!” – Teacher 

“Helped uncover biases and how to be a part of navigating my communities towards a healthier social norm.” – School Administrator 

“Thank you for all that you are doing. It was well received here. I long for a day where this information is standard across society.”  –  Counselor

The Local Impact Grant will also support our efforts in expanding our Youth Advisory Leadership Council (YALC), which empowers youth ages 13-21 to be leaders in community education. Our current YALC ambassadors receive training and mentorship by YES Institute staff, and take an active role in improving their schools and communities. YES Institute staff lead interactive workshops when invited into after-school programs where youth learn about the YALC opportunities and are motivated to take positive action in their lives and school communities.

“I learned that many people are supporting youth in our community. Despite social fears, YES institute left a positive impact on what I can expect for my future.” – High school student

“There is more good than bad in this world, especially in our generation. It’s just our job to find it, and express the goodness.” – High school student

“In the world that we live in today, filled with isolation and individuals, YES Institute extends community and communication.” – Former Intern and YALC Member at YES Institute

Thanks to the Local Impact Grant, YES Institute will continue to provide supportive resources for families in need. The mental health needs of our community’s youth have been skyrocketing in the past year. Parents are calling our office requesting counseling services and psychologists that serve youth in the pride community. 

“I’m looking for words of gratitude. I feel part of your family. When persons like me find people like you, I feel wonderful.” – Mom who called for resources.

To learn more about the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation Local Impact Grants programs and winners, click on their websites.

NBCUniversal.com   TeleMundo51.com   NBC6

To request a presentation for your organization, your school, your faith-based organization, or workplace, please use the Navigation Menu at the top-right of this page. Or you can call our office, Monday-Friday, from 9am-5pm ET at 305-663-7195.