Our Story
Our journey began over two decades ago with a vision to support and empower youth with untapped potential. Rene Diane started Vision Youth Center in the Derita community back in 2000. We successfully operated, providing essential services to local families. However, in 2008, the economic downturn hit hard. Many of the families we served, who worked in banking or government jobs, had to withdraw their children. I decided to pursue my passion for Photography and Graphic Design.
2020 the Pandemic forced me to close my business. In 2021, I began working for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools as a CTE Teacher. After a year of teaching and observing the disconnect scholars had concerning school and the direction of life after school, my commitment to empowering youth was reignited. This led to the creation of VYC Foundation Inc. Today, we continue that mission with renewed passion and a steadfast commitment to creating brighter futures for our community.
Then: Vision Youth Center
2000 - 2013
Highlights:
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Served over 120 families in 13 Years: We have provided vital resources and support to over 120 families, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their goals.
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Engaged 15 dedicated volunteers: Our mission is fueled by the hard work and commitment of 15 passionate volunteers who give their time and energy to make a difference.
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Delivered impactful programs: We offered before/after school tutoring, teen mentorship/leadership, camps for Spring, Summer, and Winter Breaks, Kid's Night Out, and Mother's Morning Out.
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1 Purpose: At the heart of everything we do is a single, unwavering purpose: to empower at-risk youth and help them realize their full potential.
They're All Grown Up Now
Our journey with Vision Youth Center was filled with memorable moments and significant achievements. Here are some images of the youth we impacted during those formative years.
Testimonial
From a few of our Vision Youth Center parents and former youth participants.
J. Mundle
"There are no words that I can express to let you know how grateful we are to have been apart of VYC. You were a primary building block in Felicia's foundation and in my education of being a parent."
K. Grillo
"❤️❤️ Forever thankful for VYC. We are definitely a huge family."
J. Covington
"The good ole days, definitely miss VYC💙"
N. Moore
Thank you so much. You were a BIG part of their lives, you are definitely part of the village. ❤️❤️
Now: VYC Foundation Inc.
2024
Highlights:
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Summer 2024: We were invited to offer our Financial Literacy & Academic Excellence program to a summer camp program, impacting over 100 participants.
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Fall 2024: We are excited to start our comprehensive programs, including career and leadership development, academic and life skills, emotional and social growth, and creative expressions.
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We are back with the same purpose: to support and uplift youth in our community through transformative programs and initiatives. Our journey continues with new milestones and the same unwavering dedication.
Just A Few Memorable Moments
Summer 2024 Financial Literacy & Academic Excellence focused on understanding the difference between "wants and needs" understanding budgeting, investing, and the use of real life scenarios to spark critical thinking, problem solving and collaborating.
