Foundation Funds New Youth for Tomorrow Facility

The Freddie Mac Foundation recently joined the nonprofit organization Youth for Tomorrow (YFT) in the dedication of its new academic/physical fitness facility in Bristow, Virginia. YFT is a successful residential program founded by former Washington Redskins Head Coach Joe Gibbs in 1986 for at-risk teenage boys.

YFT's new building, in part made possible by a $1 million donation from the Foundation in 2001, includes a new facility to serve young women and also accommodates classrooms, faculty offices, a gymnasium and central dining area. With the additional residential facilities, the number of young men and women served will increase from 65 to 100 annually.

"These buildings represent so much more than just bricks and mortar. This is a place for young people to change their lives, a place where they will receive a foundation to help them prepare for a successful future. And I know that many dreams will take root here," said Maxine B. Baker, president and CEO of the Freddie Mac Foundation at the building dedication. "It's really exciting for us to see our $1 million dollar investment at work, and to know that more young people will receive the outstanding services you provide."

Since its inception, YFT has served more than 400 teenage boys, helping them move beyond their troubles to lead productive lives. Youth are supported in developing the insight, self-discipline and motivation to become educated, responsible and productive members of society. The program emphasizes conflict resolution, alternatives to violence, and substance abuse education with a strong focus on prevention and decision-making.

The mission of YFT is to provide a residential home, family counseling center, and high school committed to ensuring a safe, healthy, intellectually stimulating and spiritually enriching environment in which at-risk adolescents can make positive behavior adjustments. On leaving the program, YFT continues to provide support to those who have returned home or entered into an independent living situation.