Empowering youth through innovative community transformation
Brandon’s Story:
I grew up in East Cleveland, in a neighborhood where poverty was the norm, and opportunities felt out of reach. As a kid, I had no one to help me develop my gifts or teach me the core life lessons I needed. Life often felt isolating, and I carried the weight of doing everything alone.
But even in those moments, I held on to the belief that there had to be more—something meaningful, something worth reaching for. I would dream of a future beyond the limits of what I saw around me. I’d dream of walking to the edge of East Cleveland, the railroad bridge that separates it from University Circle. Each time in my dream, as I stood at that overpass, I could see hope and a future on the other side.
The problem was that I was always scared to cross. That fear of the unknown kept me standing on the edge, never stepping forward.
East Cleveland's youth face significant challenges, including a lack of safe recreational spaces, limited mentorship opportunities, and few resources for personal development. Without intervention, many are left vulnerable to negative influences and a future without adequate support or direction.
The Intervention:
Free The City is dedicated to providing consistent and impactful programming through initiatives like Club Night, Youth discipleship, and creating a fitness and boxing gym. These programs offer safe environments, leadership development, and healthy outlets for the youth, helping to guide them toward positive futures.
Our Approach:
We will host monthly Club Night events to engage over 60 youth, provide group mentoring and one-on-one mentoring and workshops to nurture leadership skills, and build a fitness and boxing gym as a space for physical and mental development. Each of these components addresses a critical need in the community, from safe gathering spaces to personal growth opportunities.
Without support, these essential programs will lack the resources they need to succeed. Youth may miss out on safe, supportive environments and guidance, increasing the likelihood of falling into negative cycles and missed opportunities for personal and academic growth.
Be Part of the Change
Join us in this mission to transform East Cleveland. Whether through financial support or prayer, your involvement will help shape a brighter future for the city's youth. Together, we can make a difference—support Free The City. Your donation will directly fund:
Youth Leader – Providing the resources to hire a youth worker for one-on-one mentoring, group mentoring, and leadership workshops.
Your support is vital in empowering the next generation and building a brighter future for the East Cleveland community.
By supporting Free The City, you are investing in the future of East Cleveland’s youth. Your contribution will help build safe events, provide essential mentorship, and create a fitness and boxing gym that promotes discipline, health, and positive engagement, setting youth on a path toward success.
Help Us Reach Our Goal!
We’re on a mission to raise $50,000 to fund a full-time disciple-maker in East Cleveland schools, dedicated to guiding and empowering youth every day. Thanks to our generous supporters, we’ve already reached 16.8% of our goal.
Community Partner
$200 or less/month:
Community Leader
$300/month:
Community Champion
$500+/month:
Every contribution—big or small—brings us closer to our goal. Together, we can create a lasting impact—every contribution counts! Join us in building a brighter future for our youth.