Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Connecting Youth Achievement Center & Consulting
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: Conneting Youth Achievement Academy
Mailing Address: 2494 Roycroft Aly
City: Marion
State: Iowa
Postal Code: 52302
Main Phone: 219-614-2974
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.cyacciowa.org
Employer ID Number: 85-3038310
Organization Tax Status: tax exempt

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 02/26/2024
Requested Amount: $2,500

Project Title: "Powerful Choices" for adolescent mental health
Project Description:

The Connecting Youth Achievement Center (CYAC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates in the states of Iowa and Indiana. Established in 2020 with the mission to address the critical gap in social-emotional learning (SEL) and academic deficits for neurodivergent black and indigenous elementary and middle schoolers in both urban and rural settings. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by these communities, CYAC has provided SEL and academic support to more than 35 students with special needs. We aim to implement the "Powerful Choices" curriculum developed by Ruth Anne Eccles, executive director of Equipping Youth. This evidence-informed curriculum emphasizes building protective factors and fostering healthy decision-making among adolescents to decrease the rates of STIs and other risk behaviors in rural Iowa.

National statistics highlight the glaring lack of equitable optimal health education, like Powerful Choices, for neurodivergent youth, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. According to recent data, neurodivergent individuals are disproportionately affected by social and emotional difficulties, yet resources tailored to their specific needs are scarce. Furthermore, black and indigenous youth often face critical challenges due to systemic inequities, exacerbating their vulnerability.

Through the "Powerful Choices" curriculum, CYAC seeks to empower neurodivergent middle schoolers with essential life skills, emotional regulation techniques, and interpersonal communication strategies. By providing culturally responsive and inclusive SEL programming, CYAC aims to bolster resilience and promote positive mental health outcomes within these communities.

This project aligns with CYAC’s mission to foster holistic development and create pathways to success for neurodivergent youth. By leveraging evidence-informed practices and collaborating with community stakeholders, CYAC endeavors to cultivate environments where all marginalized youth feel valued, supported, and equipped to thrive.

Total Project Budget: $45,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Potential sources include: Vela Education grant ($5k), Tony Robbins Foundation ($10k), Indiana Microschooling ($250). Committed Sources are Tri’Une Dance and Fitness ($250) and The Wonderful Company ($1k).

Project Duration: June 10, 2024-Dec. 20, 2024
Geographical Area Served: Lake County and LaPorte County, IN. The cities served are Gary, IN, Griffith, IN, Kingsford Heights, IN, and Westville, IN
Age Group To Be Served: 10-14 years old

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs
Contact First Name: Shakira
Contact Last Name: Releford
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 219-614-2974
Contact Email: sreleford@cyacciowa.org