Every dollar you give builds a brighter future for Oakland youth.
In just one week, the global movement of Giving Tuesday will be here—a chance to make an extraordinary impact on Oakland’s youth.
As you know In a world where access often defines success, at Catalyst Youth Network, we’re building bridges to opportunity for students furthest from resources and life-changing opportunities.
Through mentorship, career training, and community building, we empower young people like Marcel, who found belonging and a pathway to his dreams through our programs.
Thanks to supporters like you, this past year we achieved incredible milestones:
At Career Con 2024, over 80 students gained exposure to professionals from industries like law, aviation, and finance, participated in resume workshops and mock interviews, and heard inspiring stories from local leaders about how resilience shaped their career journeys.
Through Career Bridge, 35 Oakland students participated in paid internships, leveling the playing field for youth from disenfranchised communities. They gained real-world exposure to industries like aviation, government, and law, building their confidence through hands-on projects and meaningful work—not menial tasks. These experiences equipped students to envision brighter futures and pursue meaningful careers.
At the Youth Center, over 60 young people found a welcoming environment that nurtured their potential. It was a place where they developed essential life skills, formed meaningful relationships, and accessed mentorship that inspired them to dream bigger and achieve more. For many, it became the community they had been searching for.
And the best part? We’re just getting started.
In 2025, we’re expanding our impact to empower more youth:
Launching the Catalyst Emerging Leadership Academy: This new program will equip Oakland’s future leaders with critical skills through personalized coaching, hands-on leadership projects, and industry exposure. Graduates will leave with scholarships, technology tools, and a strong foundation for success.
Expanding and enhancing internship opportunities: We’re increasing the partnerships and options of our paid internships to ensure students can access equitable, real-world experiences. Each internship will be thoughtfully designed to provide meaningful work, professional mentorship, and career-building guidance.
Creating pathways to tomorrow’s careers: Our new job readiness curriculum will empower students to step confidently into high growth fields in the bay area. By offering practical training in technical skills, fostering people skills, and integrating social-emotional learning, we’re equipping Oakland’s youth with the comprehensive toolkit needed to thrive in the workforce and in life.
Here’s how you can help today:
Thanks to an incredible $2,500 matching gift fund, your Giving Tuesday donation will be doubled—dollar for dollar! This means every $50 becomes $100, every $100 becomes $200, and every gift creates twice the opportunity for students who need it most.
Together, we can:
Invest in youth with mentorship and skills that inspire confidence and career success.
Empower leaders by opening doors to opportunities that strengthen our community.
Build a legacy of leadership in Oakland, equipping the next generation to thrive and inspire—one student at a time
Mark Your Calendar for Giving Tuesday (Tuesday, December 3rd)
Donate Now to Double Your Impact
Let’s build a brighter future for Oakland youth.
With gratitude,
Robert Rickett
Executive Director, Catalyst Youth Network
P.S. Want to make an even bigger difference? Share this with your friends and family to multiply your impact!
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