Y.R.U.N. TEEN WORKSHOP
2026
HIGHLIGHTS
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Our Mission
Youth Reaching Unlocked Narratives (Y.R.U.N.) empowers youth in underserved communities via mentoring, to develop leadership capabilities, confidence and character building, acquire real world skills, create inclusiveness, rewrite their futures, become changemakers, and give back with pride.
Youth on a Mission
What does it all mean?
Statistics show that in Jefferson County, AL, 16% of residents live below the federal poverty line, with 26.3% of children under 18 living in poverty. Of these, 37.8% of people that have not earned a high school diploma live at or below poverty level.
In many of these situations, the youth are underserved and do not have the proper tools and insight to set them up for a successful future. Y.R.U.N. helps youth to understand that there is growth and life outside of what they may see or experience. We foster hope, in sometimes hopeless situations. We help to prepare them for the real world by partnering with local high schools to educate them on creating a vision for their futures and a step-by-step to get there.
We also partner with residents and local businesses to catapult our program. Donations from people like you help to make this program a success. It funds supplies, food, safe activities, field trips, and much more!
We are looking forward to partnering with you to ensure the success of the youth in our program, both now and years to come.
Program Initiatives
"Your Story Matters"
Oftentimes, young ladies and gentlemen do not feel heard, or know how to effectively express themselves; whether it is at home, school, or work. We help students to identify opportunities for growth by developing a story and learning how to navigate it to help effectively shape their futures. We also foster an inclusive environment where everyone is seen and heard, and not judged.
"Money Matters"
"Your pocket must have a hole in it." We have likely all heard this from someone. It was usually because once we received money, we spend it. Y.R.U.N. helps students learn about earning and navigating money matters and effective solutions for managing it.
"Communication is Key"
Not knowing how to effectively communicate can equate to life or death. Our program teaches youth how to communicate effectively to de-escalate and navigate situations that could otherwise turn out to be detrimental These situations include home, work, and school environments.
Y.R.U.N.
Board of Directors
Executive Director
Daileen Carter
Y.R.U.N. was birthed out of Daileen's understanding that our future depends on the youth of right now. Growing up in Detroit and transplanting to Alabama, she understands first hand what underserved communities needs are. She has a vast background in entrepreneurship, management, real estate, business, and finance. She enjoys working with the public, teaching, meeting new people, and helping others grow. She is the proud mother of two sons, David and Marsalis, and married to Langston, who supports all of her endeavors and ventures. She has traveled to 14+ countries; which includes living in 3 countries in Africa over a 10 month period. She enjoys sharing her life experiences to help others succeed.
Director
Sandra Tipsword
Sandra Tipsword is proud to be a part of Y.R.U.N, reaching out to enhance the lives of underserved young people. After 45 years of working with special needs individuals as a master level psychologist she has developed a personal and professional compassion of assisting people in their challenge of not only meeting but exceeding perceived potential. When not working Sandy can be found hanging with her little dog Xena, fishing, gardening, or routing for her favorite sports teams. The sports teams won’t be mentioned by name but, she was born and raised in Detroit, if that gives you a hint.
Director
India Austin
As a dedicated board member of Y.R.U.N., India brings her background in finance and customer service to support our mission of empowering underserved communities through accessible and informative initiatives. With years of experience in banking and client relations, she understands the importance of building trust, transparency, and financial stewardship—values that are at the core of what we stand for. These initiatives not only aim to raise vital funds for community programs, but also strengthens connections between donors, volunteers, and the lives we impact. Together, we can work toward a viable, more inclusive future.
Director
Dr. James E. Lovejoy
An integral part of Y.R.U.N. is based on integrity and positive influence. Dr. James E. Lovejoy served with distinction in the United States Armed Forces for 20 years, retiring in 2005. He continued his commitment to national service through government contracting in Iraq and Afghanistan from 2005 to 2013.
Now retired from military and government work, Dr. Lovejoy remains an active and devoted member of his community. He serves as a Deacon at True Word of Life Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where he plays a vital role in a range of outreach ministries. His efforts include youth mentorship, support for homeless veterans, and work with Habitat for Humanity—demonstrating his lifelong dedication to service, compassion, and community upliftment.
Y.R.U.N. Youth Program
Your contribution helps bring hope to youth by funding program supplies, meals and snacks, activities, and educational field trips.
Thank you in advance!
205-810-2323
Mailing Address:
P.O. BOX 9564
Birmingham, AL 35220
A 501 c3 non-profit organization
