Our Purpose
YEMBA provides youth with the education, exposure and experiences that lead to better outcomes for themselves, their families and their community. We are committed to maximizing after-school and in-school opportunities where at-risk students can benefit most from extra-curricular programs and a well-rounded support network.
Edward was born on Chicago's west side to a single mother with little formal education. He grew up in a neighborhood with limited access to resources and numerous opportunities for criminal activity. However, one nonprofit youth center provided Mr. Redd with the tools for charting a different course. That youth center's investment and encouragement motivated Mr. Redd to attend college, where he double-majored in engineering. He inspired his siblings to pursue college educations as well and, in 2007, he founded YEMBA to empower other vulnerable youth.