From the Desk of the CEO: End-of-Year Reflections
As 2025 draws to a close, we are filled with gratitude for the young people, families, partners, and supporters who make Y.O.U.’s work possible. This has been a year of both challenges and breakthroughs, reminding us why our mission matters and why community collaboration is more vital than ever. We invite you to read President & CEO Craig Dorn’s end-of-year message, reflecting on the year’s milestones and the promising path ahead.
Looking back on 2025, it’s clear that this was a year of profound shifts across the nonprofit landscape. Federal and state policy discussions touched nearly every aspect of our work, including efforts to:
a) dial back diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives;
b) re-imagine SNAP and Medicaid benefits;
c) overhaul the school funding system at the state level;
d) proposal to eliminate the Department of Education;
and more.
In the face of this complexity, Y.O.U.’s response was rooted in the same qualities that have defined us for decades: nimbleness, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to young people. We accelerated our strategic planning by a full year, intentionally sharpening our vision and doubling down on our mission to support youth on their journey toward fulfilling lives.
At the same time, we strengthened and expanded our relationships with employers, building new and mutually beneficial partnerships with organizations ranging from CVS Health to Habitat for Humanity. These collaborations not only enriched our programming but helped create a more direct, supportive bridge from education to employment for the youth we serve.
We also deepened our alliances with youth-focused organizations such as Open Doors Academy, expanding shared staff, resources, and accountability all with a unified goal of ensuring young people have consistent, high-quality support on their pathway to success.
As we reflect on this meaningful work, I am excited to celebrate with our staff, Board of Directors, and volunteers the following accomplishments from 2025:
1,772 teens earned a paycheck through our Summer Youth Employment Program, totaling more than $3 million in wages..
83% of youth who completed internships with local businesses, earned at least one professional certification.
3,861 students across our partner schools explored career pathways and received advising to plan their futures.
Another major milestone this year was our decision to move from downtown to the neighborhoods, relocating all of Y.O.U.’s operations to the emerging Career District at East 40th and Superior. This move brings our full team under one roof for the first time in decades and positions us to create a permanent home for our signature Summer Youth Employment Program. Sharing space with NewBridge will also allow us to strengthen our connection to the health care sector.
With our move to the Career District, our strengthened partnerships, and the remarkable accomplishments of 2025, Y.O.U. is entering the new year with clarity, purpose, and momentum. I am confident that 2026 will bring even more opportunities to innovate and expand our impact.
Thank you for your dedication to the youth of Greater Cleveland — we couldn’t do this work without you.