Published on 23, May 2023

The Role of Community Activations in Empowering Urban Youth: A Case Study of THINKWATTS Foundation

Urban youth often face systemic challenges that make it difficult for them to achieve their full potential. From underfunded schools to limited access to healthy food options, there are a variety of obstacles that can hinder their success. However, community activism can provide a powerful solution to these issues. 

It’s important to spread awareness of the role of community activations in empowering urban youth, and one way to do so is through a case study of the THINKWATTS Foundation.

THINKWATTS Foundation was established as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2018 by Brandon "Stix" Salaam-Bailey, a rapper, record producer, songwriter, and entrepreneur who was born and raised in Watts, California. The foundation's mission is to uplift communities and address pressing issues, with a particular focus on food security, financial literacy, entrepreneurship support, sports programming, environmental justice, and workforce development.

“Community activations are the backbone of our foundation,” says Salaam-Bailey. “They bring people together, create a sense of belonging, and provide resources that help them to thrive. When we invest in our communities, we invest in the future. We can inspire the next generation to be leaders and change-makers, and to create a better world for us all.”

One of the key ways that THINKWATTS Foundation empowers urban youth is through weekly food distributions. The foundation organizes these events nationwide to alleviate food insecurities faced by vulnerable populations. By providing healthy food options to those in need, the foundation helps ensure that children have the energy and nutrients they need to focus in school and achieve their goals.

Another important initiative of THINKWATTS Foundation is financial literacy. Through engaging events, the foundation educates both young and adult community members on crucial topics such as money management, creditworthiness, and investing. “We need to empower people with financial knowledge and skills,” Salaam-Bailey emphasizes. “We want to help people achieve financial stability and independence, which can be a key factor in achieving long-term success.”

In addition to financial literacy, THINKWATTS Foundation also offers workshops that empower small businesses by helping them secure capital, create P&L statements, and improve cybersecurity practices. This support is especially critical in under-resourced communities where access to traditional business resources may be limited.

Sports programming is another area where THINKWATTS Foundation makes an impact. By promoting soccer and basketball programs, the foundation encourages physical activity and a sense of community. These programs provide children with opportunities to stay active and build important social skills, which can be critical to their success later in life.

Environmental justice is another important initiative of THINKWATTS Foundation. The foundation spearheads initiatives that target access to clean water and provide low-income communities with Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs). Addressing environmental issues that disproportionately affect urban communities lets the foundation help ensure that young people have access to a safe and healthy environment in which to grow and thrive.

Finally, THINKWATTS Foundation also focuses on workforce development. The foundation fosters career growth in emerging industries such as hydrogen fueling, electric vehicle (EV) charging, and technology. Through programs such as the technology center, the foundation provides urban youth with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the job market and build fulfilling careers.

It’s clear that community activism can be a powerful tool in empowering urban youth and helping them overcome the systemic challenges they face. THINKWATTS Foundation is an excellent example of how community activations can make a real difference in the lives of young people. “It’s our social duty to help provide critical resources,” says Salaam-Bailey. “Healthy food, financial literacy, small business support, access to jobs - at THINKWATTS we want to make sure these kids have resources and support that they need to succeed in life.”

As we continue to face the challenges of our time, it is important that we continue to support organizations like THINKWATTS Foundation that are making a positive impact in our communities.

“I believe in the power of community activism,” Salaam-Bailey affirms. “It's about engaging with the community, building trust, and working together to make positive change. When we invest in our communities, we invest in our future. We empower our youth, create opportunities for growth, and build a stronger, more vibrant society.”

Lean more: https://www.thinkwattsfoundation.org/