The Youth Education Support Services, (YESS) program is funded by the United Way. This program is one of several implemented at the Urban league. The purpose of the Power-Up Computer Lab in 2002 initially was to bridge the divide between students who did not have access to PCs and the internet and the more affluent students who did have access. By addressing this divide in the community, a community steeped in poverty, opportunities for the less affluent would enable them to thrive and begin the invaluable process of lifelong learning.
The purpose of the YESS initiative is to provide the support and structure that young persons require in our community. Many youth in our area are faced with risk-filled circumstances and are challenged to lead a productive fulfilling life both in and out of school. To assist our youth in this mission, YESS provides a structured program including leadership development, computer skills training, reading, writing and calculating. Of utmost importance to the Urban League movement nationally and locally is the support of our youth, helping them to grow and mature into students who excel and mature into productive adults. We believe that our youth equal our destiny.
Students make use of the ULLC Community Technology and Learning Center in after-school programs. They participate in a wide variety of exercises including, but not limited to completing school and homework assignments, tutorials, learning fundamental computer and Microsoft skills, research, and journaling. In a supervised environment, they learn to surf the web and use search engines.
Adult support services are provided in the Community Technology and Learning Center as well. These services are offered daily, during hours exclusively for them. These services include but are not limited to GED preparation, Computer skills training, Resume support, job searching through aid of computer, and access to internet for other purposes.
Finally, all students (youth and adult) are provided with the support to gain the skills/credentials to become self sustaining and lifelong contributing members of their community.