Youth United

Youth United connects young people to adults who can provide guidance, advice and inspiration to help them achieve their potential.

Building Youth Success Beyond the Classroom

In a typical year, school-aged kids spend an average of 80 percent of their waking hours outside of the classroom. How they spend this time away from school has a tremendous impact on the way students see themselves, build healthy relationships and find their place in the world.

Youth United was created in partnership with the HV3 Foundation. The brainchild of Akron native professional golfer Harold Varner III,  HV3 works to provide affordable access to youth sports and mentorship.

Youth United is a positive youth development and leadership program which helps students build connections throughout the community. It puts young people in touch with trusted adults – trained Success Coaches – who can provide guidance and inspiration, helping kids stay on track for high school graduation, prepare for college and/or a career and take advantage of expanded enrichment and professional networking opportunities.

Youth United advances our Bold Goal 2 – to boost high school graduation rates, college and career readiness and youth participation in extracurricular activities for Akron Public Schools students.

Youth United Enrichment Events

Adult Success Coaches and student Youth Leaders are invited to take part in enrichment events throughout the year, including opportunities to meet Harold Varner III, attend sports events, and spend time with local community and civic leaders.

Growing up, I never imagined that I’d have someone in my life that truly cared about me besides my parents. But I was lucky enough to meet people who believed in me and made a difference in my life. That’s why it’s so important for me to use my influence as a professional golfer to give back to kids in my hometown of Akron. Having an influence on these kids is something that can last a lifetime. – Harold Varner III  
You may be placed on a waiting list until we are able to match you with a youth leader or success coach.

Success Coach Requirements:

  • Must have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Must commit to the program for a minimum of one year.
  • Must complete a virtual/in-person interview.
  • Must complete and pass a BCI/FBI background check.
  • Must complete a virtual training course.

In our community. With our community. For our community.

Invest where it matters

Your donation directly benefits the people of Summit and Medina counties.