Tylige Scott's story is a testament to overcoming the odds. The Columbia, South Carolina youth has navigated his education with the dream of attending South Carolina State University. His aspirations are not just about obtaining a degree; they represent a journey of resilience and determination in the face of daunting odds. United Way of the Midlands’ Young Men United (YMU) program, launched in the spring of 2023 as part of a larger United Way Worldwide initiative, has been a turning point in Tylige’s life.
“YMU has helped me to be more responsible and to be a better leader and role model,” he said. This program, targeting college-capable high school students, has provided Tylige not only with academic support but also with life skills crucial for his journey ahead.
“It’s just an amazing experience to be part of YMU,” he said. “It changed my life personally, and I believe it could change other young Black men.”
United Way Worldwide has funded six local United Ways to pilot Young Men United initiatives as part of a longstanding commitment to creating equitable education opportunities for all. The objective is to increase post-secondary attainment and workforce preparedness by ensuring that young men of color realize their full potential as successful college graduates who are prepared to enter the workforce.
More generally, YMU is also committed to engaging partners and donors to support the work of United Way related to closing critical gaps in education, the workforce, and addressing other inequities. United Way of the Midlands’ YMU program is working to help youth like Tylige overcome the realities of racial disparities in His drive to succeed academically and professionally is fueled by a desire to break free from the systemic barriers that have historically hindered Black men in America.
Shannon Reed, United Way Worldwide’s National Director of YMU, says “In order to unlock the full potential of young boys and men of color, it's essential that we enhance their opportunities. Instead of dictating what they could become, let's engage in meaningful conversations to understand their aspirations. By ensuring access to opportunities and resources, we can affirm that our boys are not broken—the system is.”
As a result, the YMU program’s approach is holistic. It acknowledges the unique challenges Black students face, blending academic support with mentorship and life skills training. Tylige credits United Way of the Midlands’ program with helping him to clarify his future goals, saying, "It’s brought people into my life who guide me towards where I want to go." This network of mentors and support systems has been pivotal in shaping Tylige’s aspirations and guiding him toward his chosen path of higher education.
Beyond academics, YMU focuses on empowerment and encouraging students to pursue their passions. This is an important side effect of the program since it fosters a sense of legacy and connection. In 2020, Native American and Black youth had the highest percentage of disconnected youth in the U.S., at 24 percent and 18 percent respectively. Tylige, inspired by this ethos of continuity, is determined to leverage his education to make a positive impact in his community. He understands that his success is not just for his benefit; it is a step towards changing the narrative for young Black men.
One highlight of Tylige’s time in the YMU program was a summer tour of a local college, to give him a glimpse of college life and to broaden his perspective on the range of educational opportunities available. On August 13, he moved in to his dorm room in preparation for his freshman year at South Carolina State University, planning to major in sports management. Programs like YMU are an important part of the support needed to help young Black men in America turn their ambitions into reality. Tylige's story shows us how targeted support and mentorship can empower young Black men to overcome systemic barriers, pursue their educational and career goals, and, in turn, contribute positively to their communities.
Tylige reflected on what can be achieved when potential is nurtured. “The YMU program helps Black students like me to be successful in the future. It teaches about responsibility and life, which helps a lot.”
His story is just one among many that we see at United Way that illustrates the enduring strength of ambition and the transformative power of comprehensive support.
If you are interested in creating opportunities for youth in your community, reach out to your local United Way to find out how to get involved.