Yep Launches 20th Anniversary Fundraiser
The Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) has launched "YEP's Next 20 – Give a Gift to the Future," a fundraising campaign to mark its 20th anniversary and finance growth plans, including a new Virgin Gorda branch in 2026. Since 2005 YEP has served more than 5,000 young people and families and continues to support over 65 children daily through academics, sports, arts, STEM and mentorship.
The Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) has launched a new fundraising campaign, "YEP's Next 20 – Give a Gift to the Future," to mark the organisation’s 20th anniversary and raise funds for its next phase of growth. Founded in 2005 by Dr Henry Jarecki, Dr Kedrick Pickering and other community-minded residents, YEP says it has provided a safe, nurturing and enriching environment for more than 5,000 young people and families from the East End/Long Look community and beyond.
Today the centre supports more than 65 children daily, with hundreds more participating in programmes throughout the year. YEP’s offerings include academic support, sports, arts, STEM programming, field trips, mentorship and leadership development. Executive Director Hon Stacy Mather said the organisation is ready to build on two decades of work. "As we celebrate 20 years of impact, we are looking ahead to the next 20," Mather said. "We are pleased that parents and young people see the value of our programmes.
They are full, demand continues to grow, and we remain committed to ensuring every young person has a positive space to learn, grow and thrive." The fundraising drive coincides with the release of YEP’s 20-Year Anniversary video, which features alumni, staff, families and supporters sharing personal stories about the organisation’s effect on local lives.
Founder Dr Henry Jarecki described the film as a snapshot of YEP’s work: "What viewers will get a chance to see is a small look at the ways YEP has impacted the Virgin Islands, developing young people through connections and activities that are not only valuable and enriching to them, but also fun." Funds raised through the campaign will support daily programming, expansion initiatives, staff development and community outreach.
A central aim is to extend YEP’s reach across the Territory with the opening of a Virgin Gorda branch planned for 2026, bringing services closer to families in the northern islands. Mather emphasised the role of community support in sustaining YEP’s mission: "The impact of YEP on our young people, our staff, our families, and our supporters is a demonstration of the importance of community.
That’s why we need to ensure YEP continues to empower the youth of this Territory and we are encouraging our community to financially support just that." Residents and friends of the Territory are invited to view the anniversary video and make donations at www.yepbvi.com/donate to help secure YEP’s next 20 years of service to BVI youth.
Primary source: Guavaberry