About Uplift Project, Inc.
At Uplift Project Inc., we are dedicated to making a positive impact in the Durham, NC community and beyond. Founded in 2002, our mission is to address and support charitable issues in the Durham, Chatham, and Orange County areas. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we focus on creating opportunities and providing resources for those in need.
Our Mission
Our mission is to uplift and empower individuals and families through various programs and initiatives. We believe in the power of community and strive to create a supportive environment where everyone has the chance to succeed.
Our Programs
Our mission revolves around several key programs designed to uplift and empower the youth:
- Back to School Youth Fair: Launched in 1999, this annual event aims to close the achievement gap in public schools by providing school supplies, educational activities, and parental education. The fair has become a cornerstone of UPI's efforts to promote early literacy and academic success
- Public Awareness Seminars: The Public Awareness Series of Uplift Project, Inc. is a dialogical and informational venue that deals with local, state, national, and world issues that impact the life of the citizens of Durham. These forums feature insightful speakers and provide excellent networking opportunities for participants
- Youth League Sports: UPI has been instrumental in organizing and sponsoring youth sports teams, including baseball and basketball. These programs not only provide a healthy outlet for physical activity but also teach teamwork, discipline, and leadership skills
- Youth Mentoring Program: This extensive mentoring initiative focuses on preventative measures and intervention methods to foster positive behaviors, reduce youth gang membership, and combat teen violence. The program also emphasizes academic success to address the high dropout rates among African American students in Durham
Our Impact
Over the years, Uplift Project Inc. has made a significant impact on the lives of many individuals and families. Our programs have helped reduce youth gang membership, decrease teen violence, and improve academic success among at-risk youth
Get Involved
We invite you to join us in our mission to uplift our community. Whether you want to volunteer, become a corporate partner, or make a donation, your support can make a difference. Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone.
Historical Perspective
The Uplift Project, Inc. (UPI) has been a cornerstone of the Durham community since its inception in 2002. Its rich history is rooted in the dedication and passion of its founders, who recognized the pressing need to support young males in the area. Before UPI was officially established, these founders were already engaged in grassroots efforts, working tirelessly to provide guidance and support through informal tutoring, mentoring, and sports programs.
Early Beginnings and Formation
The early years of UPI were characterized by a strong sense of community engagement. The founders, often community leaders and volunteers, saw firsthand the challenges faced by at-risk youth in Durham. They began organizing small tutoring sessions, mentoring programs, and sports activities to keep young males engaged and off the streets. These grassroots efforts laid the foundation for what would become a more structured and impactful organization.
In 2002, recognizing the need for a more formal approach to address these challenges, UPI was officially founded as a nonprofit organization. This formal establishment allowed UPI to expand its reach and resources, enabling it to develop comprehensive programs aimed at uplifting and empowering young males in Durham. The organization's mission was clear: to provide consistent support and opportunities for personal growth, academic success, and positive behavior.
Impact on Durham
Over the years, UPI has made a profound impact on the Durham community. By providing consistent support and opportunities for personal growth, UPI has helped countless young individuals stay on a positive path. The organization's efforts have contributed to a decrease in school dropout rates and youth violence, fostering a safer and more supportive environment for all residents.
UPI's commitment to social action and youth initiatives continues to inspire and uplift the Durham community, ensuring that today's youth are prepared for tomorrow's success.