• Founded Hull House in 1889, a groundbreaking community center for youth and families.
• Pioneered after-school programs, vocational training, and youth recreation.
• Laid the foundation for modern youth work and social services.

• Founded the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) to advocate for youth policy and funding.
• Led efforts to expand education access, healthcare, and social services for children.
• Focused on ensuring equity for marginalized young people.

• Co-founded The Forum for Youth Investment to advance youth work strategies.
• Pioneered Positive Youth Development (PYD), shifting focus from problems to strengths.
• Created the “Ready by 21” framework to prepare young people for adulthood.

• Co-founded Restorative Justice for Oakland Youth (RJOY).
• Replaced punitive school discipline with healing-centered conflict resolution.
• Helped reduce suspensions, expulsions, and juvenile incarceration.

• First Black woman elected to U.S. Congress and a champion for education.
• Expanded Head Start programs and youth employment initiatives.
• Pushed for fair funding in public schools and youth services.

• Advocated for gender equality and human rights in youth leadership.
• Worked to ensure young people’s voices are heard in social justice movements.
• Inspired organizations to integrate equity and inclusion into youth work.

Let’s take this month to recognize the women in our own communities who are making a difference for all of us in the YIPA community. Let’s honor them by striving to live up to their standards and carrying their torch forward. A great way to do that is by committing yourself to your own personal and professional growth.  Because when you grow, so does your impact.

At YIPA, our mission is to help you become the best youth worker you can. Our youth worker training equips you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a real difference. Just as these incredible women set the stage for us to have an impact on young people, we must continually invest in ourselves to support them to the best of our abilities.

Explore our online learning opportunities for youth workers and take the next step in your youth work journey toward becoming a more effective, empowered champion for our young people.