Rooted in Equity. Growing Resilence.

🌟 12 Years of Impact: A Legacy of Empowerment & Equity

Since 2013, Youth Community Agency (YCA) has been deeply rooted in Detroit and beyond—serving as a catalyst for transformation, empowerment, and generational change. From grassroots beginnings to regional and international expansion, we continue to lead with purpose and compassion.

Our Story

Founded in 2013 by Rodnesha Ross, Youth Community Agency (YCA) embarked on a remarkable journey as a small initiative with a powerful vision: to uplift teenage mothers and create pathways for their growth and success. Over the years, our dedication and unwavering commitment have allowed us to evolve into a prominent force in the metro Detroit area.

Today, we are proud to make a significant impact in the lives of African American teen moms and low-income families through our new mission statement. At YCA, we are focused on empowering individuals by bridging the racial wealth gap, promoting housing equity, and ensuring housing sustainability to combat homelessness. Through our comprehensive approach encompassing community outreach, workforce development, and advocacy, we strive to create lasting change and provide opportunities for a brighter future.

As we continue to grow, we are excited to announce that starting in the fall of 2024, YCA will extend its support to address the critical issue of infant mortality. By expanding our services, we aim to provide essential resources and assistance to families, ensuring the well-being and health of our youngest community members.

With every step we take, YCA remains committed to fostering empowerment and support within the metro Detroit community. Through our programs, initiatives, and collaborative efforts, we are dedicated to making a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.

Join us as we continue to write the story of empowerment, resilience, and hope. Together, we can create a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive and build a better tomorrow for themselves and their families.

Empowering Mission

At Youth Community Agency (YCA), our mission is to empower teen moms and young families throughout Metro Detroit by addressing the root causes of poverty through intentional, equity-centered support. We focus on expanding access to education, career readiness, and entrepreneurship opportunities, while providing trauma-informed wellness services, essential housing resources, and innovative food access solutions.

Through the planned expansion of community gardening projects, the implementation of evidence-based nutrition education, and the strategic growth of our mobile food access initiative, YCA aims to reduce food insecurity, improve health outcomes, and foster neighborhood resilience. These efforts are designed to be scalable, sustainable, and rooted in community empowerment — aligning with broader public health and equity goals.

By centering holistic development and compassionate outreach, we are committed to fostering self-sufficiency, resilience, and long-term success for the communities we serve.

500+

12+

Years in the Community

Clients serviced

Our Vision

We envision a future where every teen mom and young family in Metro Detroit has the tools, resources, and opportunities to thrive — free from poverty, food insecurity, and systemic barriers.

Through equitable access to education, economic empowerment, stable housing, holistic wellness, and sustainable food systems, we strive to build resilient, self-sustaining communities rooted in dignity, healing, and generational progress.

Rodnesha Ross

“When I founded YCA in 2013, it was with the belief that young moms deserve more than survival — they deserve legacy, leadership, and love.”

Youth Community Agency began with a passion to serve, uplift, and walk alongside young families navigating systems that weren’t built for their success. Over the past 12 years, what started as a local support effort has evolved into a full-service community-based agency that reaches hundreds of families across Detroit and Macomb County. As we grow into our next chapter, we remain deeply committed to place-based healing, grassroots empowerment, and systems-level change.

Our founder, Rodnesha Ross, continues to lead YCA with bold vision, community wisdom, and the lived experience to reimagine what’s possible for every teen mom.

A Message from Our Founder: