Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Stewart.
Hi Danielle, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Several years ago, I found myself doing a lot of community service. I had a friend jokingly ask me, “what do you want to be when you grow up?” I was working in public safety and knew that I was extremely passionate about helping others in any way I could. That made me really think and I decided that I wanted to help the youth.
I started Empowering Our Youth Inc. as a means to help the youth in the Metro Atlanta area have access to some basic tools that would allow them to be successful with school and beyond. Initially, I started off offering assistance with college applications, financial aid forms, and setting up college tours. During that time I learned that community service had become a requirement for high school graduation. Being that community service was something that I loved I established several annual community service events. While helping the youth move on to the next phases of their life, be it college or the workforce, many have grown to know us because of some of our annual community service events. Over the years, we have touched the lives of several hundred families, they have grown to know the organization and look forward to working with us.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Absolutely not! I started a nonprofit organization while working 60-70 hours a week at my full-time job. I also had no idea how to get things up and going so there were most certainly several bumps in the road. I became discouraged more than once; however, I continued to push through. After several years, things have smoothed out drastically. I do still work, just not as many hours and after eight years, the day-to-day functions of the organization have become second nature and its smooth sailing.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Empowering Our Youth Inc?
When I started the organization, I said I wanted it to feel like a safe space for the youth. In my mind, I thought “old school” Boys and Girls Club with a twist. The idea was to assist with basic necessities to help the youth be successful; tutors, mentors, assistance with college applications and other forms, workforce readiness, and community service opportunities. Over the years, the organization has become mostly known in the community for some of our annual giveaway events. Just before school starts, we host a back-to-school giveaway where we giveaway school supplies, haircuts for the gentlemen, and hairstyles for the little ladies. This event is also a community fun day as there is food, games, and fun for the little ones as well. During the Thanksgiving holiday, we get a lot of youth that volunteer for our annual giveaway; we provide dinner, toiletries, blankets, etc. to those in need in the community. During the Christmas holiday, we giveaway toys to hundreds of families at our annual Christmas Giveaway. I am extremely proud of the fact that this organization that started out as a small idea in my living room has grown to be so successful in giving back to hundreds of families.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Never give up! No matter how hard it seems or how many dead ends you run into, don’t quit. It’s not easy but it’s well worth it in the end.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.EOYINC.org
- Instagram: @eoy_inc
- Facebook: Empowering Our Youth Inc
Image Credits:
Made You Look Photography
