our mission
At KinCultivate, we are dedicated to nurturing the growth and positive racial identity development of youth of African descent.
By cultivating a strong sense of kinship and belonging, we empower them to confidently embrace and affirm their racial identity, equipping them with the resilience and agency needed to thrive.
our vision
At KinCultivate, we envision a future where Black youth in Oregon find strength and guidance in the bonds they cultivate within a supportive kinship network. From play cousins and elders to mentors and the broader community, through these nurturing relationships and a deep sense of belonging, our vision is to empower these young individuals with the resilience, agency, and pride necessary to navigate and thrive in their communities and beyond.
our story
Our organization was originally founded in Eugene, Oregon, with a vision of empowerment and resilience. Originally known as Kids for the Culture, it became a nonprofit in 2020 after years of dedicated work supporting Black youth in the community. In August 2022, we underwent a significant change in leadership, marking the beginning of a new chapter. Since then, our team has focused on introducing our organization to the Linn-Benton community, finding a new home in Albany, Oregon.
As we transition to our new identity as KinCultivate, we recognize the roots from which we've grown. Our commitment to nurturing the positive identity development of youth of African descent remains unwavering. Our mission centers on cultivating a strong sense of kinship and belonging within our community, as we continue to adapt to the unique needs of our Black youth, their families, and the broader community in the Linn-Benton area.
the problem
There is a noticeable lack of resources in the Willamette Valley, Oregon, that support the holistic development of youth of African descent.
The solution
KinCultivate is part of the solution by actively creating spaces where Black youth can connect, celebrate their cultural identities, and thrive. Through mentorship programs, community events, and educational initiatives, we cultivate a diverse kinship network that includes play cousins, elders, mentors, and the broader community. This network empowers young individuals with the resilience, agency, and pride necessary to navigate and thrive in their communities and beyond.
our values
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At the heart of our mission lies Black Joy, celebrating the vibrancy, resilience, and cultural richness of Black identity. It serves as our guiding light, reminding us to prioritize celebration and empowerment amidst systemic challenges. By fostering spaces of affirmation and vitality, we ensure that our work is grounded in the spirit of joy and pride, especially for our youth.
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We celebrate the diverse and unapologetic authenticity of Black individuals, recognizing the challenges they may face in expressing themselves fully. Our spaces are dedicated to honoring and valuing the richness and complexity of the Black experience.
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At KinCultivate, we celebrate the diverse identities and experiences within the Black community and beyond. Our goal is to uplift all voices, especially those who have been marginalized, to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.
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Our organization is built on the foundation of cultivating a supportive and inclusive community. We prioritize authentic relationships over transactional ones, collaborating with community partners to empower our collective. Through this collaborative effort, we strive to cultivate belonging, solidarity, and mutual support, recognizing that our strength lies in uplifting each other.
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Recognizing the inherent risks that Black individuals face in a society shaped by systemic racism, we prioritize community safety. While our efforts frequently involve creating spaces for dialogue and personal growth, we are dedicated to ensuring the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of all people, particularly our youth.
the team
partners
We are grateful for our dedicated community partners for their invaluable support in empowering Black youth in Oregon.
