The goal of The Shaka Franklin Foundation For Youth is not only to eradicate teen suicide by providing young people with positive alternatives, but to build a youth center where young people are welcome 24 hours a day. The center would provide the following opportunities for young people ages 12 to 21:
- Educational classes for those who have been suspended/expelled from regular school so that they do not fall behind in their studies.
- Vocational trainning such as: printing, early childhood education, film and music production, entrepreneurship, wood craft and sewing. Also available to young people:
- Counseling, tutoring, healthcare, daycare
- Theater
- Recreational activities
- A safe haven when there is no place else to go
Funding for programs will come from The Shaka Franklin Foundation's endowment fund once the fund has reached a level at which it earns enough to support the program budget. The endowment has been growing for 5 years through special events. The center will be built with funds raised specifically for a capitol campaign and matching gifts from corporations and private foundations. The current administrative overhead of the foundation is under 10% and will remain so as we prepare for the future. Our existence is dependent upon individuals and corporations to make donations either toward the future or toward current programs. If you would like to help The Shaka Franklin Foundation For Youth in any way, please call (303) 337-2515.
