Philanthropy

New Image Youth Center (NIYC).

In 2004, 21-year-old Shanta Barton-Stubbs saw a need to support youth in a neighborhood where violent crime, drug abuse, and homelessness are commonplace. That first summer, she started with 8 youth, $1500 of her personal savings, and a handful of used board games. Today, New Image Youth Center is a consistent presence in the lives of youth who often lack stability. Read more about how we are changing the lives of at-risk youth in Orlando. For the 28 year old, it’s his way of developing a relationship with the kids and giving back to the community: “It’s fun, it’s good seeing the old faces, seeing these kids every now and then,” Ross said. “It’s like developing a relationship with them. Doing things like this, it’s good to catch up with them and take them out every now and then.” “It’s great getting to know the community as a whole,” he said. “Not being from here you kind of not know too many people, so it’s a good way to give back and meet people at the same time. This isn’t Ross’ first charitable act for the community of Orlando. In 2017, he took the NIYC kids on a holiday shopping spree. And a couple of years ago, he invited them to a private screening of the film Wonder — a 2017 American comedy-drama film.