Who We Are

At United Youth Empowerment Services (UnitedYES), we are passionate about empowering immigrant and refugee youth in the Lewiston-Auburn area. Since our founding in 2016, we have dedicated ourselves to providing the resources, support, and safe spaces that allow youth to thrive. Through a combination of community-building efforts, recreational programs, leadership development, and advocacy, we create opportunities for youth to realize their full potential and become leaders within their communities.

Our Mission

Our mission is to inspire and uplift immigrant and refugee youth by providing them with the tools they need to succeed in their personal, academic, and professional lives. We believe that every young person deserves access to resources that promote growth, resilience, and leadership. We strive to create a safe, inclusive environment where youth can develop confidence, build lasting relationships, and make a positive impact in their community.

What We Do

UnitedYES offers a wide range of programs designed to meet the diverse needs of immigrant and refugee youth:

• Youth Recreational Programs: Through soccer and basketball clinics, mini-tournaments, and mentorship, we promote physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership skills.

• The CREATORS Space: A dedicated space where BIPOC youth can explore their creativity, collaborate with peers, and develop technical skills in media production, photography, and the arts.

• After-School Homework Help: We provide academic support to youth who need help with their studies, with a special focus on assisting English Language Learners (ELLs).

• Community Advocacy: Our youth advocacy and leadership development programs encourage young people to take an active role in their community, organizing events and leading initiatives that promote social justice and equity.

Our Values

At the core of our work are the following values:

• Empowerment: We believe in the power of young people to create change within their communities, and we provide the support and resources they need to succeed.

• Inclusion: We embrace diversity and work to ensure that all youth feel seen, heard, and valued in everything we do.

• Community: We foster a strong sense of belonging and unity, creating spaces where youth can connect, grow, and contribute to their community.

• Leadership: We focus on developing the leadership potential of every young person, helping them build the skills and confidence needed to lead.

Our Team

Led by Executive Director Omar Hassan, our team consists of passionate individuals who have deep connections to the immigrant and refugee communities we serve. Our staff and volunteers are dedicated to ensuring that every young person who engages with UnitedYES feels supported, respected, and empowered.

Why Choose Us

When you engage with United Youth Empowerment Services, you are supporting an organization that is deeply committed to the well-being and success of immigrant youth. Our programs are tailored to address the unique challenges faced by refugee and immigrant communities, and we work hard to ensure that every youth feels empowered to achieve their goals.

Our Commitment

At UnitedYES, we are committed to continuous improvement and growth. As the needs of our community evolve, so do our programs. Whether through expanding our recreational programs or launching new initiatives focused on mental health and advocacy, we are always working to better serve the youth and families who rely on us.