Founded in 2014, the Forbes Leadership and Youth Program is a minority-owned, woman-led nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth with behavioral disabilities. Our mission is to create a safe, nurturing space where young people can build confidence, develop leadership skills, and thrive socially and emotionally. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their challenges, and we work tirelessly to remove barriers that stand in their way. Through structured mentorship, tailored workshops, and community engagement, we help youth discover their strengths and unlock their full potential.

Our program is designed not only to support the child but also to uplift the entire family. We recognize that parents and caregivers play a vital role in a child’s development, especially when navigating behavioral challenges. That’s why we offer parent-focused resources such as support groups, educational seminars, and one-on-one coaching. These services help families better understand their child’s needs, advocate effectively in school and healthcare settings, and build stronger, more resilient relationships at home. By working together, we foster a collaborative environment where both parent and child feel seen, heard, and supported.

At the heart of Forbes Leadership and Youth is a commitment to culturally responsive care and community representation. As a minority-owned organization, we understand the unique experiences faced by underserved families and strive to reflect their voices in everything we do. Our staff and volunteers come from diverse backgrounds and bring lived experience, empathy, and expertise to their roles. We partner with local schools, mental health professionals, and community leaders to ensure our programming is inclusive, impactful, and sustainable. Every initiative we launch is rooted in equity, empowerment, and the belief that leadership begins with self-awareness and compassion.

We’re here to help our youth build the skills they need to succeed in school, at home, and in life. Whether it’s learning to manage emotions, communicate effectively, or set personal goals, our participants leave the program with a renewed sense of purpose and possibility. Parents often tell us they feel more confident, less isolated, and better equipped to support their child’s journey. Forbes Leadership and Youth is more than a program—it’s a movement to redefine what success looks like for youth with behavioral disabilities. Together, we’re building a future where every child can lead, grow, and shine.