A number of YLF’s funding partners and donors have developed more of a relationship with the TAP and PALS programs than just serving as “check writers.” All board members, whether they are corporate, business, government or academic professionals visit the programs so that they have first-hand experience with the students they serve. Frequently, the programs’ non-monetary needs, such as computers, printing, textbooks and supplies have been secured by a board member through their company or a business association.

One of the staunchest, longtime supporters has been Judge Eugene N. Hamilton, the recently retired Chief Judge of the D.C. Superior Court. Judge Hamilton has recommended many of his wards to the program over the last nine years. He has also been the honored guest speaker at the end of program Awards Ceremony.

Likewise, Mayor Anthony A. Williams (an honorary TAP graduate himself), and his mother, Mrs. Virginia E. Hayes Williams, have been strong supporters of the programs and have praised them for their emphasis on academic achievement and character building.

Perhaps our most effective collaboration has been with the parents of our students. Parent participation and willingness to “spread the word” about TAP and PALS to other families has made our student recruitment costs very low. The formation of TAP and PALS Parents Clubs bodes well for long-term relationship building with some of those persons who have the greatest stake in the success of the program.

Not surprisingly, our program staff’s relationships with school principals and administrators have enabled us to target and serve those students that we are most able to help in the judgment of these professional educators.

Our programs take place on the campuses of Hope Community Public Charter School (PALS) and at YLF's central office off of Tenley Circle in Northwest DC (TAP). Due to the special arrangements, both institutions have offered us to use classroom space at no cost.

YLF Board Director Phil McGovern accepts contribution from Frank Kelly of Charles E. Schwab Corp. Foundation. From left: Mike Barvick, Shegun Bruno-Gaston, Phil McGovern, Frank Kelly, Ed Smith