This is a youth initiative in the Poughkeepsie area—ATWILL, which stands for All Together Working In Love & Loyalty. After careful reflection and countless conversations with community members, it has become evident that our youth are in urgent need of positive outlets, guidance, educational, and employment opportunities.
Many of our young people face daily challenges due to poverty, limited access to resources, and the absence of positive role models. ATWILL seeks to directly address these issues by providing a safe, nurturing environment where youth can grow, learn, and become engaged, empowered members of our community.
A key component of ATWILL will be a Young Entrepreneurs Program, designed to inspire and support youth who aspire to start and grow their businesses. This program will not only teach entrepreneurial skills but also provide real employment opportunities, pairing young entrepreneurs with older teens who can assist them in executing their small business plans. This collaboration will create a cycle of empowerment, where youth learn from each other, build leadership skills, and develop a sense of ownership over their futures.