Boye Sofidiya

Safe Passage to Youth Leadership Bridge
The Safe Passage to Youth Leadership Bridge initiative transforms Growing Up Inc.’s existing Safe Passage program from a passive safety presence into an active youth re-engagement and community violence intervention bridge. Focusing on Black and Brown youth ages 13–18 in Ward 5 who are suspended, expelled, or chronically absent, the project leverages daily access at seven schools to deliver mentorship, peer mediation, and structured pathways back to education and opportunity. Key activities include training Safe Passage Ambassadors as mentors, expanding outreach through dedicated staff, scaling peer mediation, and integrating paid youth leadership roles. With strategic partnerships and data-driven accountability, the program aims to reduce school pushout, increase safety, and build a sustainable pipeline of youth leaders.