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Our MISSION

CREATIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Teens With A Purpose (TWP): Amplifying youth voices, dreams, and lived experiences through creative youth development. Our mission is to create a platform that empowers young people to use their voice, creativity, reflection, and action to affect personal growth, transform lives, and impact communities.

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focus areas

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youth voices

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collective action

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Our VISION

vISION

Our vision is to empower young people to shape an inspired and positive world where dreams become reality and the impossible becomes possible for everyone. By amplifying diverse talents and perspectives, fostering community, and sparking meaningful dialogue, we cultivate a new generation of leaders passionate about social justice and positive change in their communities and beyond.

Our History

EST. 1996

Teens With a Purpose was formed in 1996 by Deirdre Love. In 2007, Teens With a Purpose became TWP-The Youth Movement a 501(c) (3) non-profit youth development organization. The organization is celebrating over 26 years of experience in providing peer leadership training and has been recognized both regionally and nationally.

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HISTORY
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Our PROGRAMS

TWP stands at the intersection of proven youth development practices: civic engagement, peer leadership, and artistic expression. Through safe and inclusive spaces, we help empower youth to discover, develop, and apply their voices as agents of positive change. But our commitment goes deeper. TWP prioritizes the uplifting of marginalized youth, offering programs that are youth-centric, culturally relevant, and holistic. Join the movement working to empower the next generation to make their mark on the world.

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Our VILLAGE

STAFF / BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Our team is a dynamic collective of passionate mentors and driven teenagers dedicated to enacting positive change. Through advocacy, creative projects, and community engagement, we address pressing issues with a profound impact. We foster awareness, empowerment, and tangible solutions, transforming communities and inspiring peers to join the movement for social justice and progress.

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Deirdre A. Love
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Chief Cultural Officer
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Michelle Sims

Co-Executive Director

 

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Richard Andre Love

Co-Executive Director

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Shana Smith-Coleman

Creative Program Manager

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emeka Onyirimba

Environmental Specialist

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Malik Jordan

Program Specialist

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Jalik Jordan

Teaching Artist - Music

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marvin parker
Advisory Board Member & Alumni
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DaQuan Garnett

Peer Leader - Environmental

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Shannah marzuq Program Coordinator 
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Makayla Booney

Peer Leader - Poetry

STAFF
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