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America's Youth Inc. is a place to call home. We offer a proven methodology for successfully engaging in local community-building and decision-making. As individuals work through the curriculum, positive changes occur, both within the community and among participants. People who once felt disconnected from their community now feel they have a voice in the future of their neighborhood. Young people who once felt unsure about their future, gain a heightened sense of personal control. Students who once were lacking key technology skills are now experienced in communicating using the latest digital tools.
Our core programs include:
- After-school Tutoring & Mentorship
- Computer Literacy & Fundamentals
- Camp America Summer Program
- Faith-Based Youth Leadership
- Annual events, including Back-to-School Bookbag Giveaway and Christmas Celebration
What are you waiting for?
Call or visit for more information. Become part of our growing community!
Empowering Fernandina Beach Youth
for Over 25 Years
Founded in 1998 by beloved community leader John Gilbert Sr., America’s Youth, Inc. empowers local youth to reach their full potential through free educational enrichment, mentorship, faith-based guidance, and community-building programs. Located in the heart of the neighborhood it serves, our center at 907 S. 11th Street is more than an afterschool program-it’s a safe, welcoming space where children and teens find academic support, spiritual encouragement, and a true sense of belonging. Our impact goes beyond academics. Through structured leadership training and hands-on service opportunities, youth gain confidence, develop character, and discover their voice in shaping the future of their community. What begins as tutoring and teamwork evolves into transformation-for the individual and the neighborhood.
Our core programs include:
- After-school Tutoring & Mentorship
- Computer Literacy & Fundamentals
- Camp America Summer Program
- Faith-Based Youth Leadership
- Annual events, including Back-to-School Bookbag Giveaway and Christmas Celebration
America's Youth, Inc. – Timeline of Impact
1998
Founded by CEO and beloved community leader John Gilbert Sr., with an initial focus on empowering youth through track & field and cross-country.
1998–2011
Youth programs operate from donated church spaces, providing consistent support for local youth through tutoring, mentorship, and spiritual guidance.
2008
Co-founds the Interfaith Dinner Network (IDN) with local churches to provide free meals for community members in need.
2012
1. Moves into permanent home at 907 S. 11th Street in Fernandina Beach.
2. Launches a free daily weekday after-school program offering tutoring, meals, enrichment activities, and safe community space.
3. Camp America summer program begins, providing structured educational and recreational activities.
2013 to present
1. Hosts the first Annual Bookbag & School Supply Drive, with donations from the community to equip youth for a strong school year.
2. Launches the Annual Christmas Celebration, parade and event offering food, gifts, and support for local children and families.
Mission Statement
To provide a safe, nurturing environment where under-resourced Fernandina youth are inspired to grow academically, spiritually, and socially-equipped with the tools to lead, serve, and thrive.
Vision Statement
Creating a thriving community where every Fernandina child has the support, faith, and opportunity to reach their full potential regardless of their background.
Our Values
At America’s Youth, we believe that character, community, and faith can overcome adversity. We recognize the challenges many of our youth face, but we choose to uplift rather than define them by their circumstances.
We believe in:
- Attitude over adversity – a mindset of hope and resilience
- Effort over anger – working hard with purpose and pride
- Unity over division – building bridges in our community
- Virtue over vice – choosing what is right, even when it’s hard
- Growth over stagnation – striving for excellence in all we do
We nurture autonomy, leadership, and self-worth-guiding young people to believe in themselves, serve others, and shape a better future.
Ready to learn more or get involved?
Call us today or visit in person-we’d love to welcome you to the America’s Youth family.
America’s Youth is entirely volunteer run so that every dollar raised goes to support youth.
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