YMWIC October 2026 Newsletter

Preparing our Scholars to Create Tomorrow's Solutions®

Growing Together this Fall

Back to Learning, Growing, and Giving

“We can't become what we need to be by remaining what we are.”

~ Oprah

YMWIC CORE VALUES:

We Believe we can significantly impact the future of our youth through education and extraordinary leadership.

We Value Commitment, Honor and Accountability and through these principles we are dedicated to the tradition of excellence in serving our youth, our partners and our community.

We Promote Engagement and Collaboration by treating all people with respect and sincerity to create an environment of openness where shared success can be achieved. 

We Demonstrate Quality by working efficiently and effectively to continuously improve our programs for the benefit of our Scholars.

YMWIC MISSION:

To empower and prepare economically disadvantaged and historically underrepresented youth to excel and become leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) careers through a structured and rigorous curriculum, academic tutoring, mentoring and financial assistance programs, accomplished by leveraging alliances with K-12 school districts, universities, corporations, and our committed partners.



YMWIC Promo Video

YMWIC Foundation, Inc., was honored to receive the JEVS Human Services Future Builders Award. This award honors organizations that are helping shape the next generation through leadership, mentorship, education, and workforce readiness initiatives. JEVS Human Services Foundation recognized YMWIC's dedication to empowering young people and investing in their future by selecting our organization as the recipient of this prestigious award. Pictured here, Valry Leroy, Director of Apprenticeships at JEVS Human Services, and Mr. Richard Roberts, III, Executive Director, YMWIC Foundation, Inc. Read more about the event here.

This summer, Scholars in the MLK Chapter and Upward Bound Programs for Coatesville and Upper Darby High School took place on the campus of the West Chester University of Pennsylvania (WCU). YMWIC and WCU provided a robust curriculum for our Scholars replete with engaging STEM learning activities, life skills, college prep, and college tours. Read More.

During the four-day summer camp at Saint Vincent College, YMWIC rising 7th and 8th grade Scholars were immersed in a variety of engaging STEM activities that introduced them to different areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while also providing opportunities for recreation and team building. It was a fun and fascinating week for our Scholars, and we are grateful for our close and longstanding partnership with Saint Vincent College. Read More.

Coatesville Upward Bound Chapter: Joseph Perry is a rising senior at Coatesville Area High School and is an active member of the Coatesville Upward Bound Chapter. Joseph participated in the Summer YMWIC Upward Bound Program held at West Chester University. During the summer program, Joseph distinguished himself as a leader amongst his peers, and he helped newer Scholars learn and adjust to the YMWIC Program and expectations. He led his group to victory, winning the Robotics Presentation held at the End-of-Program Banquet. This project consisted of creating a company, designing a prototype of an underwater defense submersible, creating a budget, and pitching the idea to a mock panel representing the U.S. Navy, Department of Defense. Joseph and his team did a remarkable job on their project and excelled in the presentation of their proposal. Great work, Joseph; we look forward to seeing what you accomplish this Program Year!

Martin Luther King Chapter: Jared Ware is a rising junior at Martin Luther King High School in Philadelphia. He has been a YMWIC Scholar since 9th grade and is an active member of the MLK Chapter. Jared's favorite part of the YMWIC Program are the people; he says, "the Scholars and the staff are nice and understanding." Jared's favorite aspect of the Summer Program was visiting the different colleges and universities each week. Outside of his time with the Program, Jared enjoys participating in the J.R.O.T.C., helping out at his church, and coaching the Philadelphia Express Track Team. Jared is interested in joining the military after he graduates from high school. He hopes to join either the U.S. Army or the Air Force, where he hopes to work on aircraft. Jared was a valuable asset and a leader during our Summer Program; we could always count on his support of our newer Scholars by making them feel comfortable and familiar with the YMWIC Program. We look forward to watching him continue growing and learning during this Program Year in the coming Program Year! Kudos, Jared!

Upper Darby Upward Bound Chapter: Romuald Jean-Baptiste is a rising senior at Upper Darby High School and an active member of the Upper Darby Upward Bound Program. This summer, he actively participated in our Upward Bound program and excelled as a student leader. It was evident to all why he earned the Leadership Award at the Summer Banquet. When asked about his experience with YMWIC, Romuald says, "My experience in the Upward Bound Summer Program was what I could describe as a mix of professionalism and fun. During the six weeks, I met new people, reunited with friends and learned valuable professional skills. Some examples are resume writing, how to conduct myself during interviews, and making presentations. It helped me stay active during the summer both physically and academically. I was able to review and improve my essential math, reading, and comprehension skills. Additionally working together in groups or collaborating made it easier to get to know each other. We even got to tour different colleges in the area. If I could sum it up, I would say that this year’s summer camp was a success." Outstanding job, Romuald. We cannot wait to see what your senior year has in store for you!

Raquel Avery: I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this honor. I'm a hardworking and dependable mom to two adult children who takes pride in everything I do. I've been with the YMWIC Foundation UDUB (Upper Darby Chapter) for two and half years. As a parent, I'm especially proud to see my son, Tayvion, surrounded by and recognized for his scholastic achievements. He started as a Jupiter scholar and I've seen how this Program has allowed him to improve his self-confidence through public speaking and building friendships. This experience has also encouraged him to believe more in himself, take pride in his accomplishments, and continue to strive for excellence. Read more.

YMWIC is excited to announce the launch of our new GEAR UP Program in the Coatesville Area School District, the William Penn Area School District, and the Chester-Upland School District. Established nationwide in 1998, Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is a federal grant-funded initiative that supports Scholars and their families in the following four areas: academic support, college-going culture, career exploration, and financial literacy. The goal of GEAR UP Academic Coaches and Career Counselors is to drive student success by increasing attendance rates, providing academic support for accelerated scholarly achievements, and offering Scholars and their families critical knowledge about navigating post-secondary opportunities. This support begins when Scholars enter 6th grade and continues until they complete their first year of post-secondary studies. By engaging scholars early in their academic careers, GEAR UP aims to provide ongoing assistance to create a culture of success and support that will ease families through the many obstacles students often experience upon graduation.

Coatesville Chapter: Tanner Wallace is a dedicated 10th grade Scholar from Collegium Charter School who joined YMWIC in 8th grade and has continued to grow through the Program. He says, "What I love most about YMWIC is the teamwork, especially working alongside people I trust; and, of course, the delicious food and snacks provided during workshops.


Since joining YMWIC, Tanner has seen improvements in his teamwork skills and has become more confident collaborating with others. He continuously pushes forward in his academic and personal life with determination. His perseverance is also reflected outside the classroom. He recently tested for his black belt in karate, an accomplishment that demonstrates discipline, focus, and commitment. Read More.

Chester-Upland Chapter: Mya Ferguson, a junior Scholar, attends STEM at Showalter. Mya joined YMWIC when she was in 9th grade. What Mya likes most about YMWIC is how the Program, staff and volunteers have helped improved her social skills and create new connections: “YMWIC has helped me with managing my time, communicating with others, as well as being comfortable when stepping outside my comfort zone to embrace new ideas and try new processes or tasks. My participation in YMWIC has also enhanced essential skills for school and the real world.” Mya isn’t quite sure what or where she wants to study or what career areas to enter when she graduates from high school. Her advice to younger Scholars is "complete all of your milestones and attend your Community Service events.” Mya has received honor roll, and in her free time, she enjoys completing work and watching movies. Congratulations, Mya; continue doing well!

Norristown Blockson Chapter: London Gilmer is an 8th grade Scholar at East Norriton Middle School who joined YMWIC in 2025. London is already making great strides in the Program and shared that one of the things she enjoys most about YMWIC is the support she receives, especially as she worked through her Science Project. London said the Foundation has helped her understand the importance of grit and perseverance. She has learned to keep going and not give up, especially when tackling new challenges. She also shared that YMWIC is helping her better understand how the Scientific Method is used in everyday life which has sparked her interest in science. When asked about her future, London shared several career interests, including cosmetology or pursuing her love of sports as a soccer or basketball player. She also hopes to attend Harvard University one day. Read More.

Norristown Eisenhower Chapter: Meet Jannah McAfee, a 5th grade Scholar at Eisenhower who joined the YMWIC Foundation in 3rd grade! Jannah enjoys being a Scholar because she gets to try new science projects, learn about interesting topics, and meet new people. She says one of the biggest impacts YMWIC has had on her is helping her become more comfortable speaking in front of others while also teaching her how to be professional. Looking toward the future, Jannah dreams of becoming an entrepreneur and owning her own hair and nail salon. She is also developing her musical talents by learning to play the trombone in her music class. Outside of school and YMWIC, Jannah enjoys spending time with her friends and hanging out with her little sister. Her advice to younger and new Scholars is simple: “Be ready to do new things, meet new people and learn a lot of cool science stuff.” For anyone who has never heard of YMWIC, Jannah encourages them to come to a meeting and learn about YMWIC. We are proud to highlight Jannah and look forward to watching her continue to learn, grow, and pursue her dreams!

Upper Darby Upward Bound Chapter: Jaden Ammons attends Upper Darby High School where he is in the 9th grade. This is Jaden’s second year with the Program. What Jaden likes most about YMWIC is getting to meet like-minded Scholars who share his interests and academic goals and how YMIWC staff and volunteers prepare Scholars for a successful future. He says, “I joined YMWIC because I wanted to be more social with people and get ready for the future. Another reason I joined is because I really love engineering and wanted to be around others who were into it as well." A college he has in mind is Stanford University, where he would like to study History and Engineering. Jaden wants to be an engineer for his favorite roller coaster manufacturer, Bollinger & Mabillard Consulting Engineers, Incs. Jaden’s advice to younger Scholars would be to attend Project Support and workshops. In his free time, Jaden likes to draw as well as build roller coasters on his Xbox, or play Sea of Thieves.

West Chester Chapter: Symone Howard has shown great commitment and dedication to YMWIC. Since joining YMWIC in the 6th grade, Symone has continued to grow into a focused, driven, and compassionate young leader. Now a sophomore at Garnet Valley High School, she balances her dedication to academics with her passions for dancing, track, and painting.

Symone’s love for science, especially chemistry, reflects her curiosity and determination to learn and succeed. Her future goals of attending college and becoming a nurse or EMT speak to her caring spirit and desire to make a difference in the lives of others. We are incredibly proud of her commitment to the YMWIC program over the years and are excited to continue watching her grow, achieve, and inspire those around her.

William Penn Chapter: Santigie Thollie is a senior at Penn Wood High School. He has been a Scholar with the YMWIC Foundation since 10th grade. Santigie is interested in pursuing a career in electrical engineering, and he is currently looking at Drexel University, Williamson College of the Trades, and University of Pittsburgh (Pitt). Initially, Santigie did not love YMWIC; but now, he loves it. His advice to new Scholars is to stick with it, and keep trying no matter what. Santigie's favorite aspect of YMWIC are the friends he has made. When asked what the biggest impact of YMWIC Foundation has been for him, he says, "Being able to finally answer the question 'What do you want to do for your career?' For the longest time, I didn't have an answer, but because of this Program, now I do." During his high school career, Santigie has achieved Distinguished Honor Roll and received a baseball leadership award. In his free time, Santigie enjoys playing the trumpet and spending time with his niece, nephew, and cat.

MLK Chapter: Zakiyah Coleman is a 12th grade Scholar from the MLK Chapter of YMWIC. She has been a member of YMWIC since 9th grade. Enrollment and active participation in the Program have helped her grow academically and personally. Taking advantage of resources available, guidance from staff, and hands-on learning activities during workshops have helped her become more focused on her education. She enjoys and utilizes Academic Support, Tutoring, Mentoring, and opportunities that prepare Scholars for life skills, college, future careers, and more. The Program has helped her become more responsible and disciplined, encouraged her to maintain good grades and set study goals, and to take her education more seriously. “In the future, I want to become a realtor, and YMWIC has helped me understand the importance of being prepared, professional, responsible, and confident when working toward a career. The Program provides leadership, financial literacy, and real-world experiences, which are skills I will use now and in the future.” Zakiyah wants other students to know about YMWIC because it is more than just a scholarship program—it gives students opportunities to improve academically, prepare for college, develop leadership skills, and learn about different careers. She encourages other students to get involved because YMWIC has made a positive impact in my life. Being a Scholar of this Program showed me that the choices I make now can affect opportunities later. 

Furness Chapter: Ameil Jackson is in 11th grade at Furness High School. He joined YMWIC in 2025 with his twin brother, Aleim. Not only has he attended the College Expo but also reports "It gave me a sense of direction with my career choice and college selection." After college, Ameil wants to become a mechanical engineer. We admire your hard work, Ameil!

The YMWIC Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Young Adults is designed for YMWIC Alumni and young adults aged 18-25. This Program is ideal for you if you hold a High School Diploma or GED and are seeking a hands-on pathway to employment in the trades or a non-degree area without pursuing a 4-year college path. Participants are not required to be YMWIC Alumni. This comprehensive program includes one to two evening or Saturday morning workshops in collaboration with our industry partners, along with a potential 8-week paid summer internship. Participants gain a better understanding of the industry they wish to enter, including its standards, regulations, and best practices, which can help them make more informed career decisions and prepare them for the world of work. STEM positions are the focus but may also include construction management, energy and utilities, information technology/security, manufacturing and production, and engineering technology. To sign up, click here!

We are accepting applications for the YMWIC 2026-2027 Program Year. If your child is a rising 3rd - 11th grade student in one of the Pennsylvania Counties of Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, or Philadelphia; or in the Chester Upland, Coatesville Area, Norristown Area, Phoenixville, Upper Darby, West Chester Area, or William Penn School Districts, or attends Edmonds Elementary School, Frankford High School, Horace Furness High School, or Martin Luther King High School in Philadelphia and you are interested in having them become a part of the dynamic and rewarding YMWIC Pre-College After-School Program, visit our website at ymwicfoundation.org for more information. Complete the Student Interest Form and a member of our staff will contact you.

All returning Scholars can click these links to complete 2026-2027 Program Year forms:

Choose one:
Chester County Scholar Application
Delaware County Scholar Application
Montgomery County Scholar Application

Philadelphia School District Application

AND the

Scholar Personal Statement

We look forward to welcoming all new and returning Scholars to another exciting year!

YMWIC 21st Annual College & Career Expo

YMWIC will host its 21st Annual College & Career Expo on November 14th at Henderson High School in West Chester, PA. There will be a panel of guest speakers in the morning sessions available to our Scholars and their families. The Expo will open in the afternoon, and we will host a multitude of colleges and local career partners in the gymnasium. This is the perfect opportunity for our community to learn more about the colleges and universities and career paths available to our Scholars. Our partners are invited to support the Foundation as a sponsor or donor for the event, and/or participate in the exhibition in the afternoon.

To register for this free event, click here!

YMWIC 2nd Annual Chef & Wine Gala

YMWIC will host its 2nd Annual Chef & Wine Gala on November 19th at the Desmond Hotel in Malvern, PA. Guests at this event will enjoy an elegant and memorable evening of exquisite cuisine, delightful pairings of carefully selected wines, and the joy of fine dining. Our partners are invited to support the Foundation as a sponsor or donor for the event, purchase advertising for their organization in our Souvenir Program Booklet, or participate in our Silent Auction. All donations support the YMWIC Scholarship Fund.



To purchase tickets, advertisements, or make a donation, select this link.

YMWIC 2026-2027 Program Year Key Dates & Volunteer Opportunities -- Mark your Calendar!

• September, 2026 – May, 2027: Workshops at partnering school districts and tutoring*
• November 14, 2026: Annual College & Career Expo
• November 19, 2026: 2nd Annual Chef and Wine Gala
• January 19 - June 12, 2027: Pre-Apprenticeship Program*
• March-April: Annual College Tour
• April – May, 2027: Job Shadowing Period*
• April 17, 2027: Botball Robotics Team Competition in Great Mills, MD*
• May 20, 2027: 16th Annual Scholarship and Awards Banquet*
• June 14 – July 24, 2027: Summer Enrichment Programs (K–12)*
• June – August 2027: Summer Jobs & Internships for 12th grade Scholars and Alumni* 

*These are wonderful volunteer opportunities for Partner Employee Involvement.

YMWIC is seeking to support our local chapters in elementary and secondary education in math, ELA, and Science. 

YMWIC is also looking for Volunteers to support additional volunteer opportunities: Event committee participation with the Golf Classic, Scholarship Banquet, and College Expo.

If you are interested in applying for a volunteer opportunity, please select this link, and we will contact you immediately. All volunteers must have the required clearances: Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Clearance, and the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Criminal History Clearance which is required for all employees and some volunteers.

Want to keep up with our amazing YMWIC Scholars? We’ve got you covered! Follow us on Instagram and Meta (formerly Facebook) to stay in the loop on all the fun, learning, and exciting updates happening in our programs.

It’s super easy to join in! Just open your Instagram or Meta (Facebook) app, search for YMWICScholars, and hit that Follow button when you see our logo. Don’t be shy—drop a comment and say hi! 👋

We can’t wait to see you join our social media family and experience all the awesome things happening at YMWIC. Let’s have some fun together!

📲 Click HERE to follow us on Meta (Facebook)! 📸 Click HERE to catch us on Instagram!

Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC): YMWIC Foundation, Inc., is eligible to receive funds from the EITC Program which is administered by Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development. We thank those businesses that donate their EITC funding to YMWIC Foundation and encourage others to consider directing funding to our impactful community nonprofit that provides college and career preparation for K-12 students; empowers their families; counseling, financial support and internships for YMWIC college alumni; and enriches our communities through Community Service activities, increasing the number of college graduates, and developing a talented and skilled workforce. Please contact Rick Roberts at (610) 340-2844 if you would like to consider our YMWIC Foundation, Inc., as a recipient of your company's EITC funds. The EITC Program allows approved business and corporate contributions to be turned into tax credits. Whatever amount you owe in Pennsylvania taxes, 70%-90% up to $750,000 annually can be distributed to eligible nonprofit organizations lowering your state taxes by the amount donated in communities you serve. Contact us if interested in sending EITC funds to YMWIC Foundation, an eligible and impactful community nonprofit.