CUL’s Youth Programs

Your Columbus Urban League offers several initiatives to help today’s youth prepare for tomorrow’s world. Learn more below about all of our youth-based programming.

Work Readiness Training University (serves ages 14-19) – WRTU is CUL’s signature youth job placement initiative, helping prepare young people for the careers coming to Columbus and beyond with hands-on opportunities that often lead to permanent jobs. Learn more

Strive Toward Empowerment & Purpose (serves ages 14-19) – The STEP initiative is an 8-week intervention program in partnership with The City of Columbus & Franklin County Municipal Courts, which provides resources to parents and families who have children ages 11-17 on the cusp of entering the justice system. Learn more

Neighborhood Violence Intervention Program (serves ages 14-19) – The NVIP team aims to keep our youth safe and on-track to healthy, productive lives. We connect with several hundred youth annually and deescalate incidents regularly, helping to reduce crime and gang-related violence. Learn more

VLOG (serves ages 14-19) – Youth learn to create, develop, and produce a group YouTube Platform and Video Blog (VLOG). Students will receive appropriate training and support in the development of the VLOG and YouTube, as well as assistance in creating a marketing plan to attract other teens to view their work. Learn more

I Am My Brother’s Keeper (serves ages 14-18) – IAMBK offers a holistic array of enriching and transformative experiences to young men of color, enhancing their abilities and giving them the skills, connections and supports that contribute to a healthy, productive life. Learn more

Young Engineers Society (serves ages 10-14) – Formerly FRESH Afterschool/Summer, Young Engineers Society introduces youth to exciting world of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Learn more

Project Survival (serves ages 9-19) – Project Survival aims to reduce substance abuse, build self-esteem and reinforce positive decision-making skills among middle school students. This initiative is integrated into all other youth programming serving youth/students. Learn more

Head Start (serves pre-K) – CUL hosts three 5-star rated Head Start programs on Columbus’ south side as a partnership agency under the YMCA Head Start Grant, preparing children both academically and socially to succeed in kindergarten. All CUL Head Start graduates enter school reading or reading ready. Learn more