Welcome to Greater Youth Foundation
Becoming Greater is more than a goal — it’s a way of life.
At Greater Youth Foundation, our goal is to empower youth to rise above limitations and become confident, capable leaders in their communities. We provide mentorship, education, life skills training, and career exposure that prepare young people for success, both in life and in the workforce.
About Us
Our Mission
Our Mission: To uplift underprivileged and at-risk youth through mentorship, education, and career pathways, while empowering families with the tools to nurture tomorrow’s leaders.
Our vision is to create a movement of greater minds, greater confidence, and greater futures by connecting youth with mentors, community resources, and opportunities that spark purpose. We believe real change begins when young people feel seen, supported, and equipped to take ownership of their path.
From hands-on workshops and teen companion programs to community service projects and parent engagement, GYF focuses on the whole child—helping each participant grow mentally, emotionally, and socially.
Our Programs
How We Transform Lives
Explore
Our Mentorship program provides guidance and support to our youth, helping them navigate personal and academic challenges.
Empower
Our Life Skills Program is designed to equip our youth with essential skills for personal and professional success.
Elevate
Career Exposure offers individuals the opportunity to explore various professional paths through experiences and mentorship.
Behind the Brand
Meet Our Founder
I’m Malacia McCants Johnson, the proud founder of the Greater Youth Foundation (GYF) and a devoted single mother of four amazing boys. Together, we’re building a legacy of giving back — creating opportunities for others just as others once created for us.
MY STORY
As a teen, I was blessed to have a mentor through a teen companion program who believed in me when I couldn’t see my own potential. That relationship opened my eyes to the idea that I was bigger than my environment and capable of achieving anything I set my heart on.
That experience planted the seed that would one day grow into GYF. I learned firsthand how one caring mentor, one opportunity, or even one conversation can completely shift the direction of a young person’s life.
WHY I STARTED GYF
As my own children grew, I made it a priority to connect them with mentors, educators, and community leaders who could help shape their character, career paths, and life skills — resources that weren’t always accessible within our family. Through those experiences, I saw how exposure and guidance can transform not just individuals, but entire families.
GYF was born from that truth — to build bridges for youth who need a safe space to grow, learn, and thrive, rather than becoming a product of their circumstances.
Malacia McCants Johnson
Founder and CEO
Testimonials
Real Stories, Real Impact
"GYF has been a game-changer for our community. Their mentorship programs have ignited a passion for learning and growth among our youth, leading to remarkable transformations."
Samantha White
"The educational support provided by GYF has opened doors for our children, giving them the opportunity to dream big and pursue their aspirations with confidence."
Michael Johnson
"I highly recommend GYF for their unwavering commitment to empowering underprivileged youth. Their dedication to creating lasting change is truly inspiring."
Jessica Lee
Our Core Values