About Us
Our Mission
To support and amplify the work of people and programs doing exceptional hands-on, mentorship-focused youth talent development work.
Our Vision
A world where every young person has the opportunity to discover and develop their unique talents through hands-on experiences and mentorship.
Our Driving Principle: Wabi
Wabi is a traditional Japanese philosophical ideal, typically translated as "rustic beauty," that emphasizes the beauty of imperfection, impermanence, and simplicity. In the context of youth development, wabi reminds us to appreciate the unique qualities and potential of each young person, even if they don't fit into traditional molds of success or achievement. It encourages us to embrace the messy, unpredictable, and imperfect nature of learning and growth, and to find joy in the process of discovery and exploration.
It's also a convenient coincidence that Wabi is the name of the mascot for one of our founding programs, Westside Boiler Invasion.
Our Core Values
Craftsmanship
Do good work, and let your curiosity and insights guide you to do even better work. Know a little about a lot, and a lot about as much as you can. Learn from & collaborate with others to sharpen each other's skills.
Stewardship
Strive to do your best because the work you do matters. Take responsibility for the impact of your actions and strive to make things right. Take care of yourself, each other, your craft, your work, your communities, and your planet.
Agency
Believe in your ability to make a difference. Take initiative, embrace challenges, and be proactive in shaping your own path. Empower others to recognize and harness their own potential to create positive change in their lives and communities.