Partner Spotlight: Richmond Youth Engagement Services

Lauryn with Swavae Delights

At Founders Mark, we are honored to partner with organizations that share our vision of empowering young people with entrepreneurial skills, leadership opportunities, and the confidence to shape their futures. This summer, Youth Engagement Services (YES) in Richmond, Virginia, exemplified what’s possible when youth are given the chance to lead.

Dr. Lerone Joseph, Richmond Office of Community Wealth Building, captured the heart of our partnership perfectly:

Kira’s Kuisinee selling to Dr. Joseph at the Founders Market

“At Youth Engagement Services (YES), we believe that the future belongs to bold, creative, and fearless young leaders and this summer, our partnership with Founders Mark brought that vision to life in powerful ways! For more than five years, YES and Founders Mark have teamed up to spark entrepreneurial thinking and leadership among Richmond youth.

This summer was no exception. Through engaging programs like Launch It and Create Impact, students didn’t just learn business basics—they discovered how to turn ideas into action, how to collaborate to solve real challenges, and how to use their creativity to make lasting change in their communities. From launching ventures like Swave Delights and Find Focus to developing social impact projects, our teens showcased resilience, grit, and innovation at every step. Confidence soared, leadership skills grew, and teamwork flourished.

Our YES summer interns added incredible energy and talent, contributing to program delivery while gaining valuable professional experience that will shape their futures.

The highlight of the season, the Founders Market Celebration, was nothing short of inspiring! Students proudly presented their businesses and projects, demonstrating not only their hard work but also the bright potential that Richmond’s young people carry. The excitement in the room was a powerful reminder of why investing in youth leadership matters.

Thanks to our strong, innovative partnership with Founders Mark, youth this summer walked away with future-ready skills, expanded networks, and a renewed sense of purpose. Together, we are building a generation of leaders who are prepared to own their futures, uplift their communities, and change the world. The future is bright in Richmond, and it starts with our youth.”

We are deeply grateful for Dr. Joseph’s words and, more importantly, for the energy, creativity, and leadership of the YES youth who inspire us every day. Partnerships like this are proof that when we invest in young people, we are investing in a stronger, brighter future for our communities.

Summer Interns 2025