Seven black men concerned about the low educational goals founded the Metropolitan Youth Program in 1985 and the lack of positive leisure time activities of inter city youth. This group summoned volunteers, parents and community leaders to come together to build a program that would help their young people succeed. Today in 2006, 21 years later, the vision is clear and the success is growing as the youth continue to excel. For the past six years the program has contributed more than 75,000 contact hours to the Quad Cities. This year they will exceed 80,000 hours.

Metropolitan Youth Program’s goal can be summed up in one phrase. “ If we can reach them; we can teach them”. The program seeks to assist children at risk of all races to set and attain realistic, yet significant scholastic and personal goals.

Since it began, the Metropolitan Youth Program (MYP) has directly benefited over 2500 young people in the Quad Cities. The program began with only 17 participants and now serves over 180 young people in the Quad Cities. Of these original 17, half are now involved as adult leaders or parents of present children. MYP has second-generation children and parents. The other half is a contributing member of their respective communities. The program serves as a very real and effective way to help children at risk stay away from the attraction of gangs, substance abuse, crime and teen pregnancy by providing a positive influence in their lives.

The Metropolitan Youth Program is staffed entirely by volunteers, who are concerned about helping young people achieve success in life. The Executive Board is composed of volunteers who founded the program as well as newcomers who are interested in the organizations mission. The executive Board is responsible for setting and implementing policies, administering programs and raising funds.

The goals of the Metropolitan Youth Program are achieved in a number of ways: the Precision Drill Team and Drum Corp, the Youth At-Risk- Self Esteem Development Program, tutorials, Jr. Achievement and other leadership activities.

Due to the success of the original programs, additional activities such as Choir, Photography, 3rd- 4th Grade Basketball, Boy Scouts, and a Praise Dance Group. A Mentoring Program, Adult Enrichment Program, Computer Basic Program and a Professional Support Group are being developed.    

 

Metropolitan Youth Program

 History