All About YEP
ABOUT US
The purpose of the Youth Excellence Program (YEP) is to promote educational programs, community volunteerism and cultural enrichment to high school aged youth of all races in the Northern Maryland area.
YEP will host the Youth Excellence Debutante program to empower, inspire, and celebrate youth who aspire to obtain higher education the opportunity to earn a stipend towards their collegiate or technical education.
Each participant will work towards receiving a stipend and/or book award for college or technical school. Our vision is to Empower, Inspire, and Celebrate our youth.
All About YEP
The purpose of the Youth Excellence Program (YEP) is to promote educational programs, community volunteerism and cultural enrichment to high school aged youth of all races in the Northern Maryland area.
YEP will host the Youth Excellence Debutante program to empower, inspire, and celebrate youth who aspire to obtain higher education the opportunity to earn a stipend towards their collegiate or technical education.
Each participant will work towards receiving a stipend and/or book award for college or technical school. Our vision is to Empower, Inspire, and Celebrate our youth.
ABOUT US
In the Spring of 1972, Mrs. Mazie Taylor conceived the idea that there was a need for an organization to support and encourage Black youth in Harford County.
OUR HISTORY
Mrs. Taylor felt that minimal attention was given to creativity, spontaneity and talent during the integration of our youth. She solicited the assistance of Mrs. Marie Brown, Mrs. Viola Scott and Mrs. Odessa Phillips. An organization called Black Youth in Action was founded. Mrs. Odessa Phillips served as the first president of the organization.
Over the years the organization formed many programs and committees, one of which was the Debutante Ball Committee. The Debutante Ball celebrates young ladies (Debutantes) and young men (Marshals) through the tools of Empowerment, Inspiration and Celebration.
On August 10, 2018, the Black Youth in Action Debutante Committee became incorporated.
In January 2019 the Black Youth in Action Debutante Corporation adopted bylaws formally organizing as an independent incorporated organization and no longer a committee.
Finally, in 2020 the newly formed organization adopted a new name, The Youth Excellence Program of Harford County.
The Debutante Program
is to promote and provide educational activities through workshops that build character, personal growth and leadership skills including but not limited to peer pressure, appropriate social media use and social networking, self-esteem building, health and physical fitness and financial planning. Below are narratives to describe a portion of the workshops that YEP hosts monthly to support high school aged youth.
EMPOWER
is to promote and provide supportive initiatives to encourage high scholastic endeavors and educational advancement, spiritual enrichment, talent exploration and cultural awareness through activities including, but not limited to college campus tours, inspirational programs, and personal and professional etiquette.
INSPIRE
is to promote and showcase community support of high school aged youth through a formal black-tie affair celebrating their walk into young adulthood.
CELEBRATE
Sisterhood
Dress for Success
Leadership
Financial Literacy
Physical & Mental Health
What our clients are saying
TESTIMONIALS
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You're probably
wondering...
FAQ
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What are the requirements for prospective debutantes?Standard Application: Application link will update when registration is open A rising sophomore, junior or senior in high school One letter of recommendation Non-refundable application fee Must select a reliable young male escort (ages 15-19) and an adult male escort (father or father-figure for debutante ball)
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How often does the YEP Debutante Program meet?YEP hosts workshops once a month on Saturday May through September. All workshop dates are released when registration opens. October through November are dance practices to prepare for the Debutante Ball.
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What costs are associated with the program?A program registration fee. Debutantes are required to purchase or rent a white ball gown for the ball. The Marshal is responsible for tuxedo rental.
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How do participants receive a stipend for post secondary education?Debutantes raise funds through the sale of advertisements for the Debutante Souvenir Journal sponsorships and donations. Seventy-five percent of funds raised are given to Debutantes with the remaining funds go towards the running of the program. Stipends are granted upon acceptance of college/trade school.
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How do I go to the ball?Tickets will be available online to purchase for the Debutante ball.
