He delivers the insight of a national expert, the passion of a concerned father and the excitement of a nationally acclaimed speaker.
Since 1984, Edward has advocated for more investments
in education and job training, fought against
the negative influence of popular culture, and
worked to develop the capacity of the youth
services field.
He has delivered more than 1000 keynote
speeches to audiences as large as 3,000 around
the nation. His work is well known and
in use by hundreds of youth service organizations
across the U.S.
Edward with Tacoma, Washington, Mayor Bill Baarsma before addressing the City’s Youth Service Providers.
Edward’s powerful message has captured the attention of cities, states, national foundations, the youth service community, and hundreds of thousands of young adults. Edward DeJesus is a recognized authority on youth engagement Often referred to as Mr. “Youth Cultural Competence (YCC)", Edward has delivered this message to diverse audiences across America. Edward empowers programs to take a look at their most valuable asset – youth. He presents an entirely new method for connecting with youth and then using youth to produce more positive program outcomes for their peers and programs alike.
Edward knows about youth and work. Edward is one of the leading employment and training experts in the United States. He has spent more than 20 years in the field of youth workforce development. He is recognized by the US Department of Labor as a leading authority on youth workforce development. His message about what it takes to get youth ready for the world of work astonishes audiences everywhere. Hundreds of programs are implementing Edward’s ideas and concepts.
Edward knows popular culture. Edward has been actively working to send a message about the dangers and promises of popular culture. Edward warns educators to be leery of using youth popular culture as they may be promoting the very things that they are working against. Instead of glorifying the 'hood lifestyle", Edward talks about economic life chances when young adults live that lifestyle. He provides good information that helps educators send a message about the importance of completing education, staying out of trouble and earning a decent living.
Edward knows the realities of youth. Edward has worked in the toughest sections of urban and rural America. As a young adult, Edward conquered the anti-achievement messages from his peers and tackled the challenges of being a young father. His inspirational message to youth and young adult audiences is mind blowing. Edward's ASPIRE formula for success, based on his life experience and work with young adults has awarded him the admiration of many of national and local leaders, celebrities and colleagues.
During a typical year, Edward keynotes events range from national conferences and executive summits to staff retreats. In recognition of his business achievements, Edward won the Washington D.C., 40 Under 40 Award for his excellence and impact on youth services across the nation.
Edward talking about Hip-Hop responsibility with P-Diddy, Master P and other power players in the Hip-Hop Industry paying close attention.
Accredited Author
Over 100,000 copies of Edward DeJesus’ books and research are used by schools, policy organizations and youth programs. The Washington Post featured Ed’s MAKiN’ iT Book, which has sold more than 100,000 copies and appeared on National Public Radio. The MAKiN’ IT Curriculum is in use by more than 100 programs to address the false codes of the streets that misdirects the educational and workforce options of millions of youth and young adults. Edward’s research is sought out by policy makers and educational institutions. Edward has just completed work for the National Education Association (NEA) the largest teachers union in the U.S. Edward recent books Countering the Urban Influence is recognized by some of the most recognized youth service leaders as mandatory reading for today’s youth service worker.
MAKiN iT - Reach Your Young Adults
"Makin" It" is a publication designed to teach young people about the realities of making the transition from youth to adulthood. click for more info
Countering the Urban Influence
An instructive book that offers everyone who reads it a chance to consider what must be done to reach America's youth... click for more info
Learn The Secrets of Youth Engagement
Based on in-depth research of ten programs that are effectively recruiting, retaining and engaging youth in workforce development, education and arts programming, click for more info
The Makin’ It Curriculum & Program Manual
Curriculum and Program Manual developed by the Youth Development and Research Fund (YDRF), is a workforce preparation/life skills program for young adults ages 14 - 24. click for more info
Staff/Advocates
“You really had a tremendous impact on all of us – from front line staff, to managers, executive directors and foundation officers. You were able, through humor and insight, to unify us as youthworkers and give us our marching orders. Thank you for that. My only concern is trying to fill your shoes at the 2nd annual conference – you set a high bar for us to meet!”
Sandra J. Ward
Office for Youth Services
City of Hartford, CT
Schools/Programs
"Ed was a huge success. We were all astounded by the impact that he had on our youth and staff. Finally, a way of sending out a message about the importance of education, work, and non-violence that not only resonates with youth, but makes sense to staff. Ed gave us a foundation to a new approach to addressing the violence and underachievement in our school system. We look forward to incorporating the MAKiN iT Day message throughout the middle and high schools in our district."
Denise Bentley Director School Safety Metro Nashville Public Schools
Policy/Legislators
“Ed DeJesus provided the opening keynote address at our 2007 Fall Workforce New York Conference which had an audience of 300 workforce professionals and partners. Ed's presentation not only positively energized and motivated conference attendees, but he also challenged them to change and try out new ideas upon their return home. Throughout the conference, consistent references and discussion of Ed's presentation could be heard.”
Jan Hennessy
Deputy Director
New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals
Edward with President of the National Education Association, Reg Weaver, after participation at National Press Conference on Addressing the Drop-Out Crisis.
Edward’s Experience
Engaging Youth
Edward gives award to hip-hop superstar and actor LL Cool J for his commitment to youth.
While
many adults struggle to reach youth with a message about the
importance of education and work skills, Edward DeJesus, Founder,
President, and CEO of the nation’s pioneering youth policy and
advocacy firm: The Youth Development and Research Fund (YDRF),
actually makes it look easy. He been
reaching youth with a message that parents and educators have been
trying to convey for years: education and work experience makes a big
difference. DeJesus is the author of Countering
the Urban Influence: Reclaiming
the Stolen Economic Fortunes of America’s Youth.For the past twenty years, DeJesus has committed his life to
working with youth who need options beyond the streets. He has
directed several major youth initiatives in the South Bronx, Harlem
and Washington Heights sections of New York City. DeJesus has been
featured in the Washington Post, Black Enterprise Magazine, The Miami
Herald, The Baltimore Sun, and by National Public Radio (NPR).
DeJesus is also the founder of Fair Chance for Youth (FCFY), an
advocacy group of youth programs across the U.S. that fights for
employment and training opportunities for our nation’s most
at-risk youth.
Edward with President of the National Education Association, Reg Weaver, after participation at National Press Conference on Addressing the Drop-Out Crisis. 