Discover. Engage. Grow..

YBS Kids was created to foster belonging, empowerment, and meaningful connection for children and families in suburban communities—especially those seeking culturally affirming spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow.

Our story

We are YBS Kids

Before YBS Kids was born, there was a gap—one that too many families knew all too well. In suburban communities, there were little to no organizations dedicated to nurturing, empowering, and culturally affirming Black youth. Families who wanted more for their children—more connection, more representation, more opportunity—often had to travel outside their own communities just to find spaces where their children could feel seen and supported.

And even then, access wasn’t guaranteed. If families didn’t meet low-income requirements or weren’t part of influential networks, they were often left without options. Their children—bright, capable, and full of potential—were overlooked in systems that failed to recognize their unique needs and experiences.

Deidra O’Neal saw this clearly. She felt it. And when she couldn’t find a place where these youth could belong, learn, and be inspired—she created one.

Founded in 2019, YBS Kids was born out of both necessity and love. It exists to ensure that young, Black, suburban youth are no longer unseen or underserved. Through culturally grounded programming, life skills development, and community-building experiences, YBS Kids affirms what has always been true: our children matter, their voices matter, and their futures are worth investing in.

Because they should never have to search for a place to belong—we will be that place.