About
We Band Together is a community-forward, culturally grounded nonprofit in Chicago on a mission to foster self-sustainability and personal growth in urban youth. We believe that when a community bands together, it can empower the next generation to not only survive but also thrive and lead. We mentor, teach, and inspire young people to survive, thrive, and connect – building stronger bonds and brighter minds along the way.`
our story
n 2021, Terrence Lee Jr. founded We Band Together with a vision rooted in community, resilience, and opportunityfacebook.com. He created this organization to empower urban youth with practical skills – from survival basics and financial literacy to career development and mentorshipfacebook.com. His goal was to prepare young people not just for jobs, but for leadershipinstagram.com in their own lives and communities. That belief in youth leadership and unity is even reflected in our name: when we band together, we discover strength through unity and ensure no young person has to navigate life’s challenges alone.
Mission
Our mission is to foster self-sustainability and personal growth in urban youth by providing culturally grounded mentorship, education, and life-skills training. We are dedicated to equipping young people with the confidence, knowledge, and support they need to shape their own futures and uplift their communities.
Vision
We envision a future where every young person has the tools to overcome adversity and become a leader in their community. In our vision, the skills and connections fostered at We Band Together create a ripple effect: as empowered youth grow into successful, self-sufficient adults, they in turn uplift others around them, strengthening the community as a whole.
Values
Our values keep us grounded in our purpose and guide every program and decision we make.
Community
We are a community-forward organization, born from and for the community. Collaboration and mutual support are at the heart of everything we do.
Cultural Grounding
We honor and embrace the cultural heritage of our youth. Programs are culturally relevant and responsive, ensuring young people feel seen, respected, and understood.
Youth-Centered
Youth voice drives our work. We involve young people in shaping programs and give them ownership of projects, believing that those we serve should also lead.
Resillience
We foster resilience by teaching practical survival skills and coping strategies. Challenges are faced as a team, instilling perseverance and a “we can do this together” mindset.
Equal-Opportunity
Every young person deserves opportunities to succeed. We open doors to new experiences in education, arts, and career development so that each participant can envision and achieve a brighter future.
Leadership
We cultivate the next generation of leaders. From day one, participants build confidence and agency – growing into role models who will pay it forward and lead positive change in their own neighborhoods.
Our Theory of Change
Our theory of change is simple: when youth have the skills, support, and confidence they need, they create positive change in their lives and communities. We invest in holistic development to ensure each young person can navigate challenges and seize opportunities. To make this vision a reality, our program focuses on four key pillars of youth development
Survival Skills
Training in practical life skills – from tying a secure knot to basic first aid and personal safety – that builds confidence and real-world resilience.
Financial Literacy
Education on managing money, budgeting, and economic decision-making, giving youth the tools for long-term self-sufficiency.
Professional Development
Workshops and coaching on career skills like résumé building, networking, and interview prep, so youth can thrive in the workplace and beyond.
Mentorship
Caring mentors from the community guide and inspire our youth, offering encouragement, cultural understanding, and positive role models that foster trust and belonging.
Strength, Encouragement, and Community
Help us in Empowering Urban Youth to Succeed Together
We Band Together is a community-forward, culturally grounded nonprofit on a mission to foster self-sustainability and personal growth in urban youth through hands-on learning, mentorship, and community support. We inspire resilience, leadership, and long-term success by showing young people they already have what it takes to thrive.