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HISTORY
It started in 1966...
Youth development and education continues to be the focus of the UYA program. When UYA opened its doors on Bedford Avenue in Pittsburgh's Hill District, the community enthusiastically welcomed this new youth service organization. UYA stressed the value of education. Students were educated about the demands of the world of work. Jobs were provided for them. They received life skills education. Community service was emphasized. It was the start of a continuous record of service to youth and others in the Pittsburgh and Allegheny community.
A generous contribution from Mr. and Mrs. George Henderson supported the early stages of the program. Mr. Robert B. Pease, UYA friend and ally, talked with Mr. Richard King Mellon about UYA. Shortly thereafter, the Richard King Mellon Foundation made a substantial contribution. For a few years, UYA operated under the guidance of the Urban Redevelopment Authority. In February 1969, UYA became a legally incorporated, non-profit organization and was granted 501(c)3 tax-exempt status by the Internal Revenue Service. In 1975, UYA became a member agency of the United Way of Allegheny County.
Youth Administration was (and continues to be) a unique program component. Students were employed at the UYA office in administrative positions - young people helping the adults plan and conduct activities for young people. For these youths, school now had concrete applications beyond the the classroom. The student who had to write an office report had a greater appreciation for their English class. The student employed in the UYA Accounting Department applied information from their accounting class. Additionally, UYA students "gave back" to their community.
The Community Activities Department took elementary school children on trips. Shopping and painting services were provided for the elderly. Neighborhood lots were cleaned. Students also worked at the UYA office as well as other organizations, businesses, and schools. Within a relatively short period, UYA was drawing national and international attention including visitors from other countries.
For a time UYA had three offices, the Hill District, Homewood-Brushton and the Northside. In 1968, an economic fund was created via a self-imposed "tax" to build an economic base that would give the program a source of continuous income. The young people and adults contributed (and continue to) to the UYA Endowment Fund. In the early 1980's, UYA participated in a research demonstration project funded by the U.S. Department of Labor and St. Louis University Center for Urban Programs. This project concluded what we already knew, that it takes time to help young people develop and set them on the path toward achieving their potential.
Times have changed. While keeping our original mission, we have made necessary adjustments. For example, for over a decade we have co-sponsored an annual science fair to encourage student interest in science and technology. Our students have access to computers. Conflict resolution, career research, selection and planning; self-esteem; and resisting negative peer pressure are among our educational session topics. Our office is centrally located in downtown Pittsburgh and accessible to students throughout Allegheny County. We are also responding in other ways to the need for young people to be prepared to function in a very complex society.
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