UrbanPromise Ministries, Inc.

Overview

UrbanPromise Ministries, Inc., located in Camden, New Jersey, is a Christian non-profit organization dedicated to empowering children and young adults with the skills necessary for academic achievement, life management, spiritual growth, and Christian leadership. Founded in 1988 by Dr. Bruce Douglas Main, UrbanPromise provides comprehensive educational and developmental programs in the local community.

History

UrbanPromise began as a spin-off from the Evangelical Association for the Promotion of Education, inspired by Dr. Tony Campolo and Reverend John Carlson. Initially operating with a modest budget of $12,000 and a small team of staff and volunteers, the organization has grown significantly over the years. It has expanded its programs and now serves over 600 local youth and families annually.

Programs and Services

• Education: UrbanPromise operates an alternative high school, the UrbanPromise Academy, and an elementary/middle school. These schools cater to youth who have dropped out of public school or have been involved in the juvenile justice system.
• After-School Programs: These include tutoring, mentoring, SAT/ACT preparation, life skills classes, and performing and visual arts sessions.
• Summer Camps: UrbanPromise offers experiential learning opportunities during summer camps, engaging youth in diverse activities.
• Job Training: Programs like the StreetLeader initiative provide employment opportunities for teens as counselors, tutors, and mentors.
• Experiential Learning: The UrbanTrekkers program exposes youth to diverse communities and nature settings through hands-on activities. The Urban BoatWorks program teaches wooden boat-building skills.

International Presence

The UrbanPromise model has been replicated in several countries, including the United States, Canada, Africa, and the Caribbean. These international sites offer similar programs, including after-school activities, summer camps, and girls' empowerment initiatives.

Impact

UrbanPromise has a strong track record of success, with notable achievements including a high graduation rate among its high school students—94% over a recent five-year period. The organization emphasizes community leadership by engaging local teens in leadership roles and providing opportunities for alumni to return and contribute to their community.

Leadership and Governance

UrbanPromise employs a diverse group of staff and volunteers, many of whom are alumni of the organization. The board consists of professionals from various sectors who guide the organization's mission and operations.

Financial and Operational Scope

With a budget of $3.6 million, UrbanPromise supports a wide range of activities and employs over 50 full-time staff. The organization relies heavily on volunteers, including college interns and community residents, to fulfill its mission.