YW3CA’s Youth Empowerment Programs work with youth and their families to create brighter futures.
Meet Nicole Dudek, a mother of three whose daughter, Celeste Plummer, has actively participated in YEP Programs for four years. Celeste’s dedication recently earned her a nomination for the Tribute to Exceptional Women and Girls Award. Nicole Dudek reflected on the experience, sharing that “attendance was insightful and inspiring for my daughter and our whole family.”
After discovering Great Girls Today, Celeste started participating in YEP and has since been involved in several programs, often bringing her brothers and encouraging other friends to join.
“My daughter was fortunate enough to fall into her first program during the pandemic, a perfect find at a difficult time, and now she sees the Youth Empowerment Programs as an important part of her life and hopes to continue to be a part of this impactful organization,” Nicole explained.
As Celeste and her younger brothers grow into young adults, actively participating in these programs has transformed what initially began as extracurriculars for Celeste into an invaluable resource for the entire family, with influences around them increasingly impacting their self-esteem, empathy, and worldview.
“YW3CA programs positively affect my young teen as she grows and develops her sense of self. Programs such as Girls in Charge and Jr Reporters have helped shape Celeste’s view of the world and herself. These experiences, Game Changers and Young Heroes Future Leaders were invaluable resources for my young sons,” stated Nicole Dudek.
During her time in YEP, Celeste has participated in an array of specialized programs and has had the opportunity to expand her knowledge, develop leadership skills, and become a positive influence on peers. Her parents, friends, and YEP staff have all noticed the difference.
“Celeste is an exceptional role model, guiding younger youth in their projects. Her endeavors consistently align with our values, promoting early literacy, providing books to underprivileged readers, and supporting fellow YEP participants,” shared Heather Coutts, Youth Empowerment Program Manager.
“She is empowered to take on leadership roles and embody YW3CA’s mission, standing up for herself and others and seeking equality and justice in her everyday actions,” reflected Nicole Dudek.
Through education, mentorship, and peer-led advocacy, YEP empowers youth like Celeste to recognize and harness their innate potential for positive change. This 9th grader has harnessed her potential, taking on leadership roles, serving as Editor-in-Chief of the Youth Talks Back Newsletter through Jr. Reporters, and going above and beyond to give back. As a catalyst for positive change in her community, Celeste initiated a literacy-focused project benefiting young people and families. She collected nearly 500 book donations, distributing them weekly at community dinners.
“I have been given a safe space to learn with peers, be a leader, and work with supportive adults. I have gained knowledge and unique experiences that I have found nowhere else. My time with YW3CA helped shape the self-confident, empathetic, growing person I am. I look forward to participating in their programs for many years!” ~ Celeste Plummer
Through the generosity of donors and sponsors and the dedication of participating youth and their families, YW3CA Youth Empowerment Programs flourish. Your support allows us to expand our programming, connecting with more youth and families and magnifying the positive impact of these initiatives. Join us in making a difference by contributing to our cause today.
To contribute a gift or learn more, visit yw3ca.org/donate.
