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.
> Learn More About Our Programs
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
For Ashlyn Osborne, one intentional connection became a lifelong community and a future she never imagined possible.
Before she ever stepped onto a college campus, Ash…
When the world shut down in 2020, Segun didn’t expect a late-night Google search to change his life. He was new to Charlotte and looking for a way to stay connected to…
> Read MoreMeet 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…
“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."