Welcome to Youth Empowerment Network

Youth Empowerment Network is a Minnesota-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth and families through mentorship, prevention education, skill-building, and community connection.
Rooted in barbershop culture, we create safe and welcoming spaces where young people feel seen,supported, and guided toward positive life choices.

Our work focuses on prevention before crisis, real conversations, and building confidence so youth can
avoid harmful paths and build strong futures.

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WHAT WE PROVIDE Our Available Programs

Explore our Minnesota-based programs that support youth, families, and community growth. Youth Empowerment Network offers mentorship, skill-building, and prevention-focused programs for youth across Minneapolis, the Twin Cities, and surrounding Minnesota communities. Our work is rooted in real relationships, honest guidance, and creating safe spaces where young people can grow, learn, and stay on a positive path.

man teaching the child

Mentors. Goals. Growth. Youth Mentorship & Life Skills

Consistent mentorship that helps youth build confidence, set goals, and make strong choices. We focus on respect, responsibility, leadership, and real-life guidance.

group of international students studying at library

Real talk. Better choices. Prevention & Real Talk Education

Honest conversations about drugs, alcohol, addiction, peer pressure, and consequences — led by trusted mentors with lived experience. Youth learn how to stay safe, ask for help, and choose better paths.

man cutting the hair

Skills for the future. Barber Mentorship & Skill Development

Hands-on learning opportunities that introduce youth to barbering as a skill and career pathway. Youth learn clipper safety, sanitation, professionalism, and work habits in a positive environment.

Team of young football players stacking hands before match

Sports, Teamwork & Leadership Events - Organization

Youth sports days, team activities, and leadership-building experiences that encourage discipline, teamwork, and positive friendships.

Volunteer cleaning during community service day

Community Projects & Volunteer Opportunities

Youth and families give back through community clean-ups and service projects that build pride, responsibility, and stronger neighborhoods across Minnesota.

kid smiling happily

View More Programs

Discover our Minnesota-based programs focused on mentorship, prevention, skill-building, and leadership. Each program is designed to support youth, strengthen families, and create positive change in our communities.

WE ARE COMMITTED Mission Statement

Our mission is to empower youth across Minnesota through mentorship, leadership, prevention education, and skill-building rooted in barbershop culture. We motivate young people, provide guidance on how to succeed as barbers and future business owners, and lead by example through consistent community service. We believe every young person can “shine” in their own way whether in barbering, school, sports, art, or entrepreneurship. We also commit to honest conversations about real-life pressures like drugs, alcohol, and peer pressure, helping youth understand consequences and make better choices. By sharing life stories from barbers and mentors of diverse backgrounds, we create safe spaces where youth feel supported, gain confidence, and grow into leaders who strengthen Minnesota communities.

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Connect with us for inquiries and partnerships or to learn more about our impactful initiatives and how you can get involved.

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