Empowering Today’s Students. Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders.
Volunteer with us to keep our youth on the path to graduation and success.
The I WILL GRADUATE Youth Development Program is dedicated to serving and empowering students, families, and the community by communicating the importance of educational excellence. We accomplish our goals through youth development programs, arts-in-education, college and career guidance, mentoring, parent engagement, school and community workshops, exciting events, and the use of multimedia platforms.
Who We Are
in 2005…
In 2005, moved by NYC’s alarming dropout rates, music executive J.P. Taylor and former educator Tonya Lewis combined their resources and industry connections
to create the I WILL GRADUATE Youth Development Program.
Only about 46% of New York City students graduated on time, with nearly half either dropping out or requiring additional time
46%
37%
Only 37% of Black and Latino students graduated on time in some districts, showing persistent racial and economic divides in graduation outcomes
50%
Schools with the lowest graduation rates had dropout rates close to 50%, making educational success an exceptional challenge for many students
INSPIRE.
We empower young people to take ownership of their personal growth and future success. By leveraging the influence and star power of prominent figures, we inspire youth to value education, pursue continuous self-improvement, and remain committed to making a positive impact in their communities.
CONNECT.
We connect youth and families to vital resources and opportunities that help students overcome challenges and strive for both academic and personal excellence.
EMPOWER.
We empower youth by providing information, guidance, and inspiration through engaging workshops and events. These experiences equip them with the tools to set meaningful goals, take action, and build self-belief-unlocking their incredible potential.
aRTS AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS
CITYWIDE INITIATIVES
Help Us Empower NYC Students for success
Your support makes a difference.
Your generous donation helps fund academic, arts, and youth empowerment programs for over 21,000 students across New York City.
Together, we are creating opportunities, inspiring growth, and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.