By no means comprehensive, this list of national organizations, which have local chapters or partners across the United States, is a starting point for anyone seeking programs for themselves or their children, or looking to become involved as an advocate for underserved youth.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
Founded in 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America matches young people facing adversity with adult mentors, and supports these relationships with programming, organizational support, and community partnerships.
Boys and Girls Clubs of America
Provides educational and recreational programming for young people age 6-18 after school and during the summer. Many clubs serve low-income areas and offer scholarships for youth in need, waive fees for some programs, and have sponsorship opportunities for interested donors.
Campaign for Youth Justice
An advocacy organization that seeks to end the practice of prosecuting and incarcerating minors as adults, and to promote alternatives to incarceration for young people convicted of crimes.
EduColor
Focusing on educational equity in American public schools, EduColor centers the voices of educators and advocates of color in the conversation about public education. Provides resources for intersectional diversity in the classroom and hosts a monthly Twitter chat under the hashtag #EduColor.
Girls Inc
Provides after school and summer programming for girls, focused on math and science education, pregnancy and drug abuse prevention, media literacy, economic literacy, adolescent health, violence prevention, and sports participation.
Global Kids Human Rights Activism Project
Partners with schools in New York City and Washington, D.C. for programming to educate and empower underserved youth to be active citizens at the national and international levels.
Stand Up for Kids
Serves homeless youth up to age 25, including young people with children of their own. Programs include street outreach, mentoring, goal-setting, and transitional and permanent housing support.
YouthBuild USA
A 10-month program for young people age 16-24 who left high school without a diploma. Participants receive a stipend and housing while they build housing for low-income and homeless people in their communities; learn job skills; earn high school diplomas or high school equivalency; receive counseling, family, and legal support; and receive transition support into college, employment, apprenticeships, and other opportunities.
