At Leading Youth Through Empowerment, we are on a mission to transform the lives of ecnomically disadvantaged youth in Delaware through education and workforce development. We believe that educational success is the foundation to lifelong success and we're dedicated to changing the trajectory of low-to-moderate income and first generation students.

Consider this: There are zero high-achieving middle or high schools in Delaware that serve predominantly low-income students. Academic opportunities and the support needed for students to excel are often not equitably available. For example, low-income students are typically not offered advanced coursework such as AP and honors classes, whether due to a lack of academic track record, lack of advocacy on their behalf, or simply a lack of recognition of their capabilities. Delaware's students face stark disparities in education and graduation rates based on their race, ethnicity, and economic class. This problem leads to a cycle of poverty and racial injustice that is felt by the entire community. 

Leading Youth Through Empowerment gives ambitious, economically disadvantaged students life-changing opportunities that would otherwise not be available to them. LYTE serves over 700 low-to-moderate income students in grades 8 through college. 78% of LYTE Scholars come from low-to-moderate income households, with 56% of LYTE families living below the poverty line. Almost all of our students will be the first generation in their families to obtain a post-secondary degree. 

LYTE helps economically disadvantaged and first generation students push through the achievement gap by offering rigorous academic instruction, personal mentoring, and leadership opportunities that catapults our scholars to success. After participating in LYTE’s academic advancing coursework and receiving school choice guidance and high school application support, our middle school scholars are able to get into top performing high school programs. LYTE continues to support them throughout high school by preparing them to pursue college degrees that fit their goals, including college application support and financial aid training. LYTE Scholars have a 100% high school graduation rate and a 100% college acceptance rate, with millions received in scholarships, grants, and financial aid. 

LYTE is passionate about breaking barriers and creating opportunities for these deserving students, but we can't do it alone. The solution is a collective one, rooted in compassion and shared responsibility. When you support LYTE, you directly contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty and offering support where it's needed most. Your generous donation enables us to empower students, providing them with the tools, mentorship, and opportunities they need to succeed. Join us and become an essential part of our mission to empower the next generation, ensuring that economically disadvantaged students in Delaware have the tools and support needed to thrive. 

For more information, please visit our website at www.lytescholars.org, or contact Marisa Ray at marisa.ray@lytescholars.org.