UrbanPromise Trenton believes in the power of opportunity. They provide urban youth and teens with a chance to believe in, and build, a positive future. Their mission is to equip Trenton’s children and young adults with the skills necessary for academic achievement, life management, spiritual growth, and Christian leadership. They have made significant progress so far as 100% of students enrolled in their programs have graduated from high school with many enrolled in college.

The organization was founded in 2011 by Carl Clark whom was of the original UrbanPromise students in Camden during his youth. After his time studying at TCNJ he recognized the need for an organization such as UrbanPromise to expand into Trenton, which he accomplished with the support of local churches including Trinity Episcopal Cathedral and St. Michael’s Episcopal Church.

Today, the organization serves around 100 students at no cost annually through a variety of programs at their Camp Grace (East Trenton Collaborative 601 N Clinton Ave) and Camp Truth (Trinity Cathedral 801 W State) locations. 

UrbanPromise Trenton serves K-6 students with their free academic enrichment after-school program and free hot meals for all students. The program offers academic assistance and newly implemented reading clubs in which students engage in thought provoking discussions and activities around an academically appropriate book for which they are currently seeking volunteers. If you are looking for an opportunity to help develop the reading skills of local youth or are preparing for a career in the education field, consider volunteering with UrbanPromise by visiting this link.

One of the more unique aspects of the organization’s work is their Street Leaders program. The program engages students in grades 9-12 to learn about career readiness, participate in enrichment activities such as field trips, receive academic enrichment, and get paid for working four days a week at the program after school. There is also a Jr Street Leaders program for students in grades 7th and 8th whom took a field trip to “A Philly Pops Christmas” this past weekend.

During the summer months, UrbanPromise Trenton offers a free five week summer reading camp at their two locations. The summer camp offers students the opportunity to continue developing their reading skills during the crucial summer months as well as offering the Street Leaders an employment opportunity along with other enrichment activities in the afternoons.

UrbanPromise was founded in Camden in 1988 before being replicated in several areas both in the United States and Internationally.

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To learn more about UrbanPromise Trenton or to get involved visit https://www.urbanpromisetrenton.org/ or call 
609-566-HOPE (4673).

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