YouthBridge and First Bank:
Investing in Young Leaders

Since 2017, YouthBridge Community Foundation of Greater St. Louis and First Bank have partnered on YEP STL! (Youth Engaged in Philanthropy), demonstrating the power of investing in young leaders. Stacy Clay, Director of Community Affairs at First Bank, shares:

First Bank is committed to nurturing the leadership potential of young people through YouthBridge’s program. Teens receive real-world experience and the opportunity to engage with their community, helping them to develop essential leadership skills and instilling a sense of responsibility and civic duty.

YEP STL! Funds Restore St. Louis

YEP STL! is an authentic expression of YouthBridge’s mission to support children and strengthen communities by directly engaging high school students in hands-on philanthropy. Guided by CEO Barbara Carswell, students lead the full grantmaking process, from reviewing applications to awarding funds to thoroughly vetted nonprofits like Restore St. Louis’ Umetulisha Food Ministry.

Restore St. Louis’ Umetulisha Food Ministry—Umetulisha, a Swahili word meaning “you have fed us”—is led by Executive Director Rev. Herman Armstrong and serves as a lifeline for children and families. Founded in 2013, the program ensures kids have consistent, nutritious food beyond the school day, now reaching multiple community sites with snacks and meals families can rely on.

Your Place in Philanthropy

YEP STL! is a launchpad for the next generation of changemakers. Know a student ready to lead? Encourage them to apply. Parents, this is a powerful opportunity for your teen to grow, give back, and make real decisions that impact their community.

For businesses and corporations, YouthBridge offers meaningful ways to elevate philanthropic impact through programs like Heritage Grants and Think Big for Kids. By sponsoring these initiatives, you can invest in highly vetted, community-based nonprofits addressing critical needs—while strengthening your commitment to thoughtful, effective giving.

Please contact our Director of Philanthropy, Andranique Joe, at 314-396-7627 or ajoe@youthbridge.org to learn how YouthBridge can help turn your philanthropic dreams into community impact realities.