YMWIC Foundation, Inc.

YMWIC Foundation, Inc. YMIC began with an idea generated by its founder and President, Mr. Richard Roberts III. Young Men and Women In Charge (YMWIC) Foundation, Inc.

We accomplish our mission by embracing a family model that provides individually targeted services: academic support and tutoring; involvement of the family in each young scholar’s program; participation in YMWIC programs. As a young engineering student at Widener University, Richard took note that there were not very many young men of color in his program of study. As a professional in the engine

ering field, he also found that colleagues from minority groups were few and far between. He began to formulate a concept: a program that would support African American and Latino males to develop their academic skills and gain the social supports they would need to be successful in college and in their careers. Initially, a few programs were provided through volunteer efforts, but in 2007, YMIC became incorporated; and in 2010, received its 501 c3 non-profit certification to provide services to youth in 5th through 12th grades in Philadelphia and it's suburban communities. During the 2013-2014 program year, YMIC opened its doors to young women and began doing business as (d.b.a.) to include programs in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) related leadership to young men and young women.

06/12/2026

Upper Darby Upward Bound Chapter: Charlieze Ganges is a senior at Monsignor Bonner & Archibald Prendergast Catholic High School, and a member of the Upper Darby YMWIC Chapter. This is her seventh year being a YMWIC Scholar, and she is very grateful for every opportunity the program has given her. Over the years, she has developed and improved her time management skills, along with learning the importance of adhering to deadlines. YMWIC has also helped her develop stronger public speaking and presentation skills, while simultaneously introducing her to her love of STEM. (Read her full Spotlight in our upcoming Newsletter!)

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06/11/2026

Our William Penn High School Scholars came together to celebrate the conclusion of another successful YMWIC Program Year. The gathering was a time to recognize their hard work, growth, and achievements while reflecting on the experiences and connections built throughout the year.

Congratulations to our Scholars and their families on an outstanding year. We are proud of all that you have accomplished and look forward to your continued success.

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FutureLeaders

06/10/2026

Upper Darby Chapter: Jaden Ammons

Jaden Ammons attends Drexel Hill Middle School where he is in the 8th grade. This is Jaden’s first year with the Program. Jaden’s favorite part about YMWIC is getting to meet likeminded Scholars and how YMIWC preps you for the future. He says, “I joined YMWIC because I wanted to be more social with people and get ready for the future. Another reason I joined is because I really love engineering and wanted to be around others who were into it as well”. A college that he has in mind is Stanford University, where he would like to study History and Engineering. Jaden wants to be an Engineer for his favorite roller coaster manufacturer, Bollinger and Mabillard. Jaden’s advice to younger Scholars would be to attend project support and workshops. In his free time, Jaden likes to draw as well as build roller coasters on his Xbox, or play Sea of Thieves.

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06/09/2026

The YMWIC Summer Enrichment Programs are back! ☀️

This summer, students in the Upper Darby, Coatesville, and Martin Luther King High School (Philadelphia) Districts will have the opportunity to learn, explore, and grow through engaging educational experiences designed to inspire the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers.

Programs will run Monday through Thursday from June 15 – July 23, 2026, providing students with opportunities to strengthen academic skills, build confidence, develop friendships, and participate in exciting hands-on activities.

Give your student a summer filled with learning, discovery, and fun!

To register your student for this summer’s enrichment program, please send us a message.

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06/08/2026

Norristown Blockson Chapter: London Gilmer

We are proud to spotlight London Gilmer, a 7th grade scholar at East Norriton Middle School who joined YMWIC in 2025. London is already making great strides in the program and shared that one of the things she enjoys most about YMWIC is the support she receives, especially as she worked through her Science Project. London said the foundation has helped her learn to keep going and not give up, especially when tackling new challenges. She also shared that YMWIC is helping her better understand how the scientific method is used in everyday life which has sparked her interest in science all the more. When asked about her future, London shared several career interests, including Cosmetology, or pursuing her love of sports as a soccer or basketball player. She also hopes to attend Harvard University one day.

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06/03/2026

Martin Luther King Chapter: Askia Manley

Askia Manley is a senior at Martin Luther King High School. He has been a YMWIC Scholar since 10th grade, and says that the program has had a strong impact on him both personally and professionally. The Foundation helped him come out of his shell, build confidence, and develop a clearer plan for his future after high school. One of his most meaningful experiences was participating in workshops and experiments, which made learning engaging and helped him think in new ways. Askia was also the 2026 recipient of the Richard Roberts, Jr. Community Service Award. During his high school career, he challenged himself academically by taking several honors courses. He also participated in Culinary Arts, where he gained hands-on experience and explored new interests. He remained committed to his academics, earning Honor Roll almost every quarter and achieving perfect attendance. Read his full report in our upcoming Newsletter.

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06/02/2026

☀️ YMWIC Summer Programs 2026 are Almost Here!

This summer, students will have the opportunity to explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) through hands-on learning, college visits, corporate experiences, leadership development, financial literacy, and career readiness activities.

Whether you’re a student in the Coatesville Area School District or attending MLK High School, our Summer Programs are designed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and prepare scholars for future success.

📅 June 15 – July 23, 2026
🎓 Rising 9th–12th Grade Students
🍽️ Free Program with Daily Lunch Included

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with peers while exploring college and career pathways!

Visit the registration link on the flyer or scan the QR code to register today.

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YouthDevelopment YMWICScholars

06/01/2026

Furness Chapter: Michelline Kho

Michelline Kho, a 9th grader from the Furness Chapter, is our featured Scholar this month. Michelline is very active in the Program, particularly in the MathCounts SIGs each week. She participated in the Penn Math contest in April and represented the YMWIC Program very well. While Math is her favorite subject, she exceeds academically in all subjects and attends the prestigious XX School. She enjoys playing badminton and attending church in her spare time. Michelline is already thinking about her future, and is currently thinking about going to college to study as either an Engineer or a Doctor. We can’t wait to see what she does next year, and we’re excited to support her along the way! 

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05/30/2026

Our Coatesville Scholars had a great time during Workshop #18! 🍦

Scholars explored science in a hands-on way by making homemade ice cream. Afterward, a group of Scholars kicked off a friendly calculus challenge, working through problems together and encouraging one another along the way.

When the power unexpectedly went out, the learning continued. Using the light from their phones, the Scholars stayed focused on the whiteboard and carried on with their calculations until power was restored. Their enthusiasm, perseverance, and commitment to learning made for an unforgettable workshop!

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ScholarAchievement

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1160 McDermott Drive
West Chester, PA
19380

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