PROGRAMS/Services
Black Boys Support Network
Black Boys Support Network (BBSN) is a culturally responsive mentorship and support program designed to create a safe, empowering space for Black boys. Launched in 2020 during the pandemic, BBSN meets weekly (Mondays at 5:30) and focuses on:
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Personal Development: Encouraging conversations around identity, boyhood, grooming practices, and conduct in various environments.
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Social-Emotional Support: Building healthy peer relationships and providing a space for vulnerability, reflection, and support.
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Skill Building: Fostering critical thinking, writing, public speaking, and positive social interaction.
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Civic Engagement: Promoting awareness and involvement in civic education, leadership, and advocacy.
BBSN aims to develop well-rounded, confident, and informed young Black men who are equipped to thrive in school, relationships, and society.
Black Girls Support Network (BGSN)
Black Girls Support Network (BGSN) is a culturally affirming support and mentorship program for Black girls, designed to nurture self-worth, emotional wellness, and leadership. Offered weekly—often during school advocacy periods—BGSN provides a safe space where Black girls can:
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Explore Identity: Engage in honest conversations about beauty standards, self-image, cultural pride, and navigating predominantly white or biased environments.
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Build Emotional Intelligence: Learn tools for emotional regulation, recognizing triggers, setting boundaries, and managing relationships.
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Develop Life Skills: Practice critical thinking, public speaking, effective communication, and leadership.
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Foster Sisterhood: Create meaningful peer connections and learn the importance of support, advocacy, and accountability within their community.
The goal of BGSN is to empower Black girls to be confident, self-aware, and prepared to lead in every space they enter.
Black Parent Support Network (BPSN) recognizes that parenting Black children in today’s world comes with unique challenges—and even greater strength. This program is designed specifically for Black parents and caregivers who are seeking community, guidance, and tools to help their children thrive while also prioritizing their own growth and well-being.
BPSN provides a supportive environment focused on:
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Empowerment Through Education: Helping parents navigate school systems, advocate effectively, and understand educational equity.
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Community Building: Connecting Black parents to a network of shared experiences, encouragement, and practical resources.
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Wellness and Healing: Centering mental health, self-care, and the importance of generational healing.
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Leadership and Advocacy: Equipping parents to lead in their homes, schools, and communities through informed and strategic engagement.
BPSN uplifts families by affirming the vital role of parents as the first and most powerful advocates for their children.
BYLP ADVOCACY
BYLP Advocacy, established in 2018 as part of the Black Youth Leadership Project, supports Black students and their families in addressing issues like racism, teacher targeting, and biased enforcement of school policies, including matters related to IEP and 504 plans. Specializing in mediation and crisis response, the organization builds relationships across districts to advocate for fair and just environments. Families facing racial harassment or discrimination can seek help by submitting a complaint form and notifying the school, granting BYLP permission to engage. Advocates ensure support during school meetings, work towards resolution, and encourage families to voice concerns at Board meetings.
It's important to note that BYLP Advocacy provides its services without requesting compensation and may not always be available during crises. However, we strive to reach out within 48 hours of receiving a completed complaint form.
legislative open house
The Legislative Open House (LOH) is BYLP’s flagship civic engagement program and has anchored the organization since 1999. The LOH provides students with an opportunity to become legislators for a day and learn about the legislative process by holding mock-committee hearings and mock-floors sessions in the committee rooms and chambers of California’s Legislative Houses. During the LOH, BYLP also hosts the Next Level Luncheon, for student participants, volunteers, and sponsors, where they hear from special guests, including local, state and national elected officials, inspirational speakers, professional athletes and more.
mindfulness based substance abuse treatment for adolescents (MBSAT)
The Youth Peer Mentor Program (YPMP) seeks to address California’s substance use crisis by providing substance use education and expansive experiences to young adults across California (with a focus on transition age and justice system-impacted youth). This 12 week program will be administered on Friday evenings ages 14-26 welcome.