Blog

Help Us Support 13 Youth!

This year, our commitment to Boston’s young people is being put to the test—and we’re asking our community to step up with us.

IBA’s Youth Development Program (YDP) is proud to serve 70 Boston high school students each year (academic and summer cycles) through the impactful integration of academic support, career exploration, professional development, artistic learning, financial education, life skills, and paid work experience. YDP changes lives by exposing young people to new interests and passions, and providing individualized support to help our youth realize and meet their long-term goals.

However, recent City budget cuts have created a $60,000 funding gap, putting 13 youth positions at risk for the 2026–27 Academic Cycle. Without additional support, IBA may be forced to reduce enrollment at a time when demand is great; for the 40 positions of the 2025-26 Academic Cycle, YDP received 300+ applications.

We’re asking our community to step up by September 15, 2026 to help us sustain these youth positions and continue delivering on this critical mission.

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