How CYC Works
Carolina Youth Coalition is an ecosystem of mentors, opportunities, and wraparound support that helps Fellows persist through college and step confidently into what’s next—whether that’s graduate school, a first job, or another path forward. Through our three pillars—College, Consciousness, and Community—Fellows gain individualized coaching to navigate milestones, develop power skills for leadership, and build a consistent network of support along the way.
A Fellow story
"The tutoring and ACT prep really drew me in. I felt like I was somewhere that highlighted my achievements, but also gave me the tools I needed to keep growing."
Every CYC Fellow's story is different. The destination is the same: a college degree, a career, and a future built on their own terms.
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The CYC Journey
CYC's Fellows not only gain admission to a college that best fits them academically, socially, and financially — we ensure they thrive.
Exclusive Partnerships
CYC is a proud partner of the Jordan Brand Wings — a network of organizations committed to opening doors for the next generation of leaders. Fellows in the Wings Program access exclusive experiences, mentorship, and opportunities unavailable anywhere else.
Explore WingsStudents & Families
Applications are currently closed. Join our interest list to receive updates about the next application period.
Learn MoreMentors & Volunteers
Your time, skills, and experience can change a life. Join our mentor network.
VolunteerNews
Meet CYC’s 2026–2027 Board of Directors
Carolina Youth Coalition is proud to announce its 2026–2027 Board of Directors, bringing together a new leadership team, return…
CYC hosts is Inaugural Career Summit.
A career path can look completely different once you meet someone who has already walked it. That belief shaped CYC’s inaugural C…
Charlotte, NC, December 5, 2025 – Carolina Youth Coalition (CYC) is pleased to announce a $250,000 donation from Bank of America to support its Torch Fellows Program a…
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“I also really like the whole notion of CYC that is not just helping the young people be equipped to apply and to get into colleges, but to succeed in college. I thought [that] was brilliant and essential."