Y.A.L.E. Academy Inc.
Mission: Y.A.L.E. Academy Inc. is committed to dismantling recidivism by implementing transformative diversionary programming in partnership with the justice and school systems. Our mission is to challenge systemic inequities, provide holistic support, and empower justice-impacted youth and their families to break cycles of incarceration and poverty.
Organizational Background
Y.A.L.E. Academy, a 501(c)(3) multi-regional nonprofit organization, was founded in 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia, as a grassroots initiative to address systemic barriers faced by justice-impacted youth. Since its inception, Y.A.L.E. Academy has expanded its reach to Buffalo, New York, and California, solidifying its presence as a leader in innovative programming focused on education, mentorship, and restorative justice practices.
The organization serves as a Live Well Gun Violence Prevention worksite, an Erie County Summer Program worksite, a diversion program partner for multiple city courts, and a provider of educational programming in public schools. Through strategic collaborations, Y.A.L.E. Academy equips participants with tools for personal development, academic achievement, and career readiness.
Programs We Offer
The Noble Freemen Program
Y.A.L.E. Academy's flagship initiative empowers justice-impacted youth through a comprehensive digital curriculum that combines leadership development, mentorship, and restorative justice practices. Key aspects include:
- Leadership development
- Career readiness
- Financial literacy
- Social-emotional tools
One key highlight is the "rite of passage" ceremony, celebrating participants' growth and commitment to becoming community leaders.
Impact/Results
Success Stories
Y.A.L.E. Academy has transformed lives, including:
- A Buffalo participant gained confidence to graduate after years of systemic barriers.
- An Atlanta youth rebuilt trust with family and community through restorative justice workshops.
Metrics/Statistics
- Nearly 5,000 individuals served since 2016
- 85% of participants avoided further justice system involvement
- 75% did not return to jail or prison within three years
- 70% reported improved school attendance and performance
- 50% reduction in suspensions among participants
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement
Y.A.L.E. Academy is committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued and supported, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, or background. We prioritize access and opportunities for marginalized communities and actively recruit diverse staff and mentors.
Environmental Sustainability Statement
Y.A.L.E. Academy integrates sustainability into operations by utilizing digital curricula, reducing waste, and fostering environmental stewardship among participants and staff.
Signature Events
Annual Unity Day
Unity Day celebrates collaboration with events such as the Police vs. Community Basketball Tournament, interactive workshops, and turkey giveaways for families in need.
Quarterly Social Work Summit
This summit provides a forum for professionals to exchange best practices and innovative strategies for supporting justice-impacted youth.
Vision Statement
Y.A.L.E. Academy envisions a future where justice-impacted youth and their families have access to holistic support systems, including a foster home and school, to break cycles of systemic inequity and build a foundation for generational change.
Core Values
- Equity: Addressing systemic disparities
- Empowerment: Instilling confidence and resilience
- Integrity: Transparency and accountability
- Community: Collaboration and partnership
- Innovation: Creative solutions for unique challenges
- Compassion: Empathy and understanding
- Sustainability: Long-term program and environmental health
