About Us

 

Recognizing the increase of violence among young people and the absence of culturally relevant, teen-focused organizations, YEAH was founded in 2018 by Kendra Van de Water and James Aye. Understanding the correlation between poverty, opportunity, and violence, YEAH provides services to address the short and long-term needs of teens in the evenings when violence is most prevalent.

 

 

Our Mission

YEAH works to create safe and authentic hangout spaces by providing culturally relevant engagement and implementing teen led interventions to address the root causes of violence. Utilizing teen action, YEAH works to interrupt the cycle of youth community violence in West and Southwest Philadelphia neighborhoods through peer led mediation and conflict resolution, community engagement, and economic opportunities.

Our Vision

YEAH envisions a Philadelphia where teens and young adults lead the way in successfully resolving violent conflicts with bold and culturally relevant practices.

Our Focus

YEAH elevates the experiences of Black teens and young adults in Philadelphia and through community investment, reduces youth violence in West and Southwest neighborhoods.