About Us
About the CEO
Paul West
Born and Raised in Oakland CA, Paul West is the exact definition of a humanitarian.
Oakland CA is considered to be one of the most dangerous cities in America, but Paul somehow managed to beat the odds and not become a statistic in his community. The essence Paul embodies is greatly attributed to support he gained from his mother, Sarah Carley and grandmother, Essie Mitchell.
Growing up, Paul was always very caring and compassionate. He gave back to his community by volunteering in the community and his local church. Paul participated in sports, afterschool programs, coaching and was involved in many community service projects which were meaningful outlets that deterred him from participating in illegal activities. This was the beginning of his journey into the non-profit sector.
Paul grew up in Oakland Public schools and he credits Hawthorne Elementary specifically for his chance to participate in some of the excellent programs they had to offer. One of the programs was the Peer Buddy Program. As a fifth grader, Paul was responsible for formulating an enrichment playtime and reading program first and second graders. Even at age ten, Paul had an innate desire to help others and give back to those around him.
During his adolescence, Paul became a student facilitator at Urban Promise Academy. There, he learned the importance of being a facilitator, how to instruct an after-school program, money management skills, patience with his peers and students and how to expand his creativity.
Paul’s calm demeanor, bubbly personality and infectious energy, led him to make influential connections and a career with several prominent non-profit organizations. Including the Native American Health Center (NAHC) Youth Fellowship, Urban Promise Academy, Youth ALIVE, Eastlake YMCA, Urban Service YMCA and Bay Area Community Resource. Paul has helped run peer programs, been a youth camp counselor, afterschool instructor, coach and most recently Site Director and Sports Director.
Ultimately, Paul realized by taking an interest in his own community, he would be able to open doors for himself and others. His dedication and focus into the nonprofit sector were the catalyst that helped Paul turn his deep passion for helping others into something much larger and inspiring for his peers and others within his community.
The knowledge that Paul has obtained throughout his career and the passion he has, has driven him since he was a young child. Empire 4 Youth has allowed Paul to put his experience and knowledge to use with his own children, kids throughout the community and anyone looking for a helping hand to STRIVE FOR THE STARS!
A dedication to Sarah “MAMA” Carley
“Mom, you always believed in my dreams as a kid. I told you what I wanted to do when I got older, which was help those around me. Help everyone by any means necessary. You always told me to do what makes me happy and not let anything stop me. I wish you were here to watch me through my journey, but I know through the grace of GOD you are watching over me and wishing me nothing but the best. I know someday I will be able to see that beautiful smile of yours and until that day comes just know I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU MAMA”.
Forever yours, your son Paul
Our Approach
We are Empire 4 Youth, a non-profit organization that wants to develop a sufficient amount of low income after school programs and low-income youth programs in Oakland, CA.
If you searched for a non-profit youth program in Oakland CA, then you know there is a severe lack of such activities.
Our goal is to develop multiple low-income youth programs and keep as many kids as possible off the streets. However, we can’t do it alone. Sure we can develop programs, but it is up to you, the concerning parents, family members, friends, and neighbors, to bring kids in and sign them up for our low income after school programs. Finding a supportive peer group is of enormous importance and this is exactly what our low-income youth programs aim to provide the youth with. Our organization is young as it was founded in 2019, however, we have a staff of highly experienced and professional members that are doing their best to develop and deliver great low-income youth programs and after school programs. For more information, you can reach us at 510-294-8683 or even better send us an email at empire4youth@gmail.com. We will get back to you ASAP.
01.
— Our Mission
To Encourage, Inspire & Empower the Youth of Today for Tomorrow
02.
— Our Vision
Kids from elementary level to high school having paths to success without gangs, violence, drugs and trafficking.
Board of Directors
Iyani Lopez-ison
Master’s Degree:
Public Administration
Bachelor’s Degree: Communications
Ashley Gaskins
Master’s Degree:
Healthcare Administration
Bachelor of Science:
Health and Science
Precious Owens
Master’s Degree:
Counseling
Psychology
Marriage and Family Therapist & Professional Clinical Counselor
Bachelor’s Degree:
Child and Adolescent Development
Minor:
Youth and Family Services