The BYI Story
Dealing with the challenges of today requires problem-solvers who bring different perspectives and are willing to take risks. Benton's Youth Initiative emerged out of a pursuit to inspire and support the community, and a desire for actions to speak louder than words. Established in 2016, we’re an organization driven by progressive ideas, bold actions, and a strong foundation of support. Contact us to learn more and get involved.
Vision Statement
Benton's Youth Initiative is a 501c3 based non-profit organization empowers grade disadvantaged and first generation students by affording them the opportunity to attend college open houses, college fairs and college tours that would accelerate their educational growth and personal development as they transcend into productive citizens.
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To identify financially challenged at-risk-youth from low-moderate income families and inspire them with the gifts and beliefs of the educational freedom that would help them to maximize their potential and to designate a successful path for their future.
Mission
Our mission is to partner with Title 1 Schools to assist low academic performance and troubled youth in underserved communities with the opportunity to attend affordable historic black colleges.
Goal
Our goal is to provide inner city youth with the guidance and support that is needed to navigate through the process of college enrolling in college and living the college life. To match these at-risk-youth with colleges of their choice, to help them obtain financial aid and to assist them in learning how to communicate with their Deans, Pupil Advisors and student peers.
Purpose
To partner with other community based organizations, city agencies, educators and faith-based organizations in the community that provide educational resources, informational sessions, workshops & conferences, awareness, parent engagement , crisis intervention and solutions for real life situations that would be the driving force that would conquer their fears, dream bigger and acquire academic excellence.
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The end result is to provide a vehicle that would motivate these struggling students to think higher and dream bigger, while developing a mindset shift that will lead them into a path of dynamic success as innovative global leaders in this 21st century.
About James Benton
Mr. James Alex Benton, a North Carolina native, grew up with the invaluable support of both his parents and mentors in the pursuit of academic excellence. In 1994, he founded Benton's Youth Initiatives, Inc., a non-profit organization committed to giving back to society and making a positive impact on the lives of others. The organization's mission is to inspire financially challenged at-risk youth from low to moderate-income families by providing them with the resources and opportunities for educational success.
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Through strategic partnerships with Title 1 Schools, Mr. Benton and his team assist underperforming and troubled students in their journey to gain admission to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). With over two decades of experience, he has made significant contributions to the educational landscape by working closely with colleges, hosting College Fairs, and tirelessly supporting at-risk youth, ensuring no child is left behind. His program not only focuses on academic support but also fosters a sense of community by connecting with parents, mentors, and various campus services, ensuring that each student has the resources and support needed to thrive in the college environment.