MISSION AND
HISTORY
Empowering Communities.
Changing Lives.
HISTORY
GBDC Entrepreneurship Institute Center for Experiential Learning was formally established as a Not for Profit 501 c 3 in July 2014. In 2019 the Mobile Entrepreneurship Leadership Training (M.E.L.T) Bus concept was launched to take services directly into the communities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, GBDCEI pivoted again to address the needs of families faced with learning gaps, especially in the STEAM disciplines and homelessness. This innovative nonprofit organization has been a beacon of hope and empowerment in Palm Beach County and beyond.
At its core, GBDCEI is driven by a powerful mission: to foster community enrichment and economic development for our youth.
Youth Empowerment:
GBDCEI recognizes that our youth are not just the future; they are the present. Through targeted programs, GBDCEI equips young minds with essential life skills, leadership abilities, and entrepreneurial acumen. By nurturing their potential, we pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.
Addressing Critical Challenges:
GBDCEI tackles pressing issues head-on. From drug prevention to recidivism reduction, homelessness, and transportation barriers, GBDCEI’s multifaceted approach ensures that no challenge goes unmet. We believe that addressing these obstacles creates a stronger, more resilient community.
STEAM Education:
Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) form the bedrock of innovation. GBDCEI’s commitment to STEAM education prepares our youth for the ever-evolving landscape of the 21st century. Whether it is coding, robotics, or creative expression, GBDCEI fosters curiosity and growth.
Collaboration and Outreach:
GBDCEI doesn’t work in isolation. We partner with local afterschool sites, community-based organizations, and summer camp programs. Our goal is to reach diverse youth in underserved communities, ensuring that every child has access to opportunities and mentorship.
Breaking Generational Cycles:
GBDCEI understands that breaking free from generational cycles—whether related to incarceration, poverty, or limited opportunities—is crucial. By emphasizing financial literacy, leadership development, and employability skills, we empower young entrepreneurs to chart their own paths.
GBDCEI isn’t just an organization; it’s a movement.
It’s a testament to what happens when passion meets purpose, when community members come together to uplift one another. Let us continue supporting GBDCEI’s mission, knowing that every step we take contributes to a more equitable and prosperous society.
OUR MISSION
GBDCEI’s mission is focused on delivering engaging programs with an emphasis on removing obstacles of generational incarceration recidivism, improving financial literacy developing leadership, life, and entrepreneurial skills of young entrepreneurs; to aid in the reduction of recidivism rates, school dropout rates and the increase in employability skills and job creation in the professional disciplines of S.T.E.A.M.
GOALS AND IMPACT
The Center for Future Entrepreneur & STEAM Leaders will provide a supportive and nurturing environment where middle, junior high and high school students can develop life, critical thinking, entrepreneurial and leadership skills. We embrace the disenfranchised youth of the community and provide support that circumvent barriers to equity.
Equity/Improved Social: recognizes that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome.
Our goals are to:
• Improve Financial Literacy
• Reduce the learning slide
• Reduce recidivism among first time youth offenders
• Expand cultural exposure & perspectives
• Increase the number of minority students pursuing college degrees in business and the STEAM professions.