ABOUT US
Level Up is a mentorship and community engagement operation that seeks to uplift and upgrade Baltimore City youth in all facets of life. This Mentorship Program is designed to foster personal and professional growth and development by pairing experienced mentors with emerging talent of all ages. This program aligns with our commitment to nurturing future leaders by addressing some of the trauma that is not considered when youth are labeled as troubled or at-risk. There is underlying trauma resulting from poverty, parental absence, abuse, neglect, and other factors that can be attributed to a child’s behavior, emotional state, and mental compacity, and Level Up addresses these factors by building conducive and appropriate relationships with other young adult mentors. These mentors teach, encourage, and engage mentees on topic such as conflict resolution, community service, entrepreneurship as well as academic and or career exploration, and they will be able to direct mentees towards any additional resources necessary. This organization will partner with schools, recreation centers, and other organizations to provide the support and assistance many youth individuals in Baltimore need. This support and assistance can come in the form of food, clothes, mental health resources, vocational support, recreational outlets, educational assistance, etc. Furthermore, Level Up not only seeks to upgrade the status and wellbeing of youth living in Baltimore, but it also pushes the surround communities to upgrade as well. Building a strong and well positioned child does not mean anything if that child resides in a community in distress, so Level Up will also organize various community engagement events and programs to help Baltimore City residents.
MISSION STATEMENT:
Level Up's mission is to Upgrade Baltimore City youth and to Uplift Baltimore City communities by identifying problems, determining solutions, and pulling together resources for both the mentee base and surrounding low-income, under-served communities. Level Up’s envisions a youth population and community unburdened by poverty, the lack of support, mental health issues, inadequate academic support, and the lack of other resources and opportunities.
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Key Program Takeaways/ Benefits: • Strong communication skills • Support system • Exposure to new experiences • Emotional support • Educational support • Positive black male role model • Leadership skill development • Assistance distinguishing and achieving career goals • Building on self-worth • Assistance on “real world” or “adult” issues • Building self confidence
The 3 E's of Level UP
The Level Up Promise
At Level Up, we Expose youth to opportunity, Equip them with the skills to succeed, Empower them to lead with confidence, and Elevate them to create lasting change in their communities.
ENGAGE- Connect, Participate, and Grow
We engage youth through meaningful relationships, hands-on learning, mentorship, clubs, athletics, service projects, and interactive experiences that keep them actively involved in their own development.
EXPOSE - Expand Horizons
We expose youth to new experiences, opportunities, careers, cultures, people, and possibilities they may not otherwise encounter.
EQUIP - Build Skills for Life
We equip youth with the knowledge, life skills, education, and resources they need to succeed in school, work, and life.
EMPOWER - Develop Confidence
We empower youth to believe in themselves, discover their purpose, overcome obstacles, and become leaders in their families and communities.
ELEVATE - Create Lasting Impact
We elevate young people by helping them achieve long-term success while inspiring them to strengthen their families, schools, and communities.
ABOUT THE FOUNDER
The Background
Dayson Brooks is a Baltimore native who cares a lot about the city as well as everyone that lives in it. He attended Baltimore Polytechnic Institute and he is currently seeking his batchers degree at Coppin State University. Dayson Brooks was only 21 when he founded Level Up, but he has spent his entire professional life working with kids in a multitude of different capacities. He has also managed to work for and volunteer with over two dozen nonprofit organizations across Maryland. Dayson is a mentor, published author, political activist, and community advocate who truly care about Baltimore City youth.