Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: VITENDO4AFRICA
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 7220 N. LINDBERGH BLVD
City: HAZELWOOD
State: MO
Postal Code: 63042
Main Phone: 3142520488
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.vitendo4africa.org
Employer ID Number: 451267554
Organization Tax Status: Good standing

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/17/2026
Requested Amount: 10,0000

Project Title: Ubuntu Youth Leadership & Wellness Initiative
Project Description:

The Ubuntu Youth Leadership & Wellness Initiative is a culturally responsive program designed to support immigrant and refugee youth ages 10–24 and their families in building leadership skills, strengthening mental health, and preparing for academic and life success. Rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—the program fosters connection, belonging, and collective growth.

Vitendo 4 Africa (V4A), an organization for immigrants by immigrants, serves over 30,000 individuals from 27 nationalities across St. Louis and six additional states. As the only organization in the region focused specifically on African immigrant families, V4A addresses critical barriers such as language access, cultural adjustment, social isolation, and limited access to trusted resources.

Through this initiative, youth participate in structured mentorship, leadership development workshops, and college readiness activities, including organized visits to local universities to increase exposure to higher education opportunities. The program also integrates mental health education and culturally grounded wellness practices, such as drum circles and group discussions, to promote healing, resilience, and social connection.

Funding will support program coordination, workshop facilitation, educational materials, and transportation assistance to ensure consistent participation. It will also strengthen access to mental health support through community-based approaches that are culturally relevant and stigma-reducing.

By creating safe, inclusive spaces and equipping youth with knowledge, confidence, and support networks, the Ubuntu Youth Leadership & Wellness Initiative empowers participants to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally while becoming leaders within their families and communities.

Total Project Budget: 75,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): St Louis Lutheran Foundation

Project Duration: one year
Geographical Area Served: Vitendo 4 Africa primarily serves the Greater St. Louis region in Missouri, with expanding programs reaching immigrant and refugee communities across six additional states in the United States.
Age Group To Be Served: Youth ages 10–24, along with their families

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): MR
Contact First Name: GEOFFREY
Contact Last Name: SOYIANTET
Contact Title: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Contact Phone: 314252088
Contact Email: info@vitendo4africa.org