YEP Enriches – A Season of Exploration
Summer 2026 was full of exploration, growth, and new opportunities! The power of partnership created unforgettable experiences for young people throughout the summer. A heartfelt thank you to the NOLA Coalition: The Rusovich Foundation, Venture Global LNG, Brian Gibbs Development, Boh Bros. Construction Co., L.L.C., and RNGD for investing in the Youth Empowerment Project’s Teen Camp through their generous Summer Challenge gift.
Because of their support, our teens explored career pathways at WDSU, gained hands-on healthcare experience with Ochsner, expressed their creativity alongside Majek Fingers and the Krewe of Athena, challenged themselves through rock climbing, and so much more. Their investment also helped extend this impact to our community partner, The 18th Ward.
We also welcomed 120 campers ages 7–16 across two locations in Central City and New Orleans East. Campers enjoyed jam-packed days filled with cooking, arts and crafts, swimming, music, soccer, dodgeball, flag football, and field trips that introduced
them to new experiences throughout the city. Thank you, Hotard Coaches Inc., for being our official transportation sponsor this summer!
One special day this summer, 9-year-old author Maddox L. Goins visited camp to inspire participants to become the authors of their own superhero stories. Thanks to our YEP Board Member, Kate deKay, and Eustis Mortgage, each camper received a copy of Maddox’s book to add to their summer reading.
From career exploration and creative expression to new friendships and unforgettable experiences, this summer was made possible through the generosity and partnership of supporters like you.