From Hygiene Kits to Hope: Youth Lead the Charge Against Homelessness
Nearly 200 hygiene kits were packed with care and intention by the students of the Future Leaders United (FLU) After-School Enrichment and Mentoring Program, a flagship initiative of the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc. (UFCF). In partnership with Amped Data Solutions, LLC and the Central Florida Urban League (CFUL), this powerful event brought together service, leadership, and education to support youth experiencing homelessness in Central Florida.
Held at the CFUL headquarters, the event wasn’t just about meeting immediate needs—it was about empowering tomorrow’s leaders and strengthening the community through collaboration.
A Vision Beyond the Present
The event featured an inspiring talk by Cornell Emile, CEO and founder of Amped Data Solutions. Emile, a data strategist and social innovator, spoke directly to the students about the importance of dreaming big and taking small, consistent steps toward achieving those dreams.
“I was deeply impressed by the young people who attended the joint service event,” said Emile. “They spoke about their dreams and aspirations with confidence and clarity. It’s clear they are not only the leaders of tomorrow but already leading today.”
Each student also received a book written by a Black author on subjects such as entrepreneurship and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics)—further fueling their curiosity, critical thinking, and commitment to personal growth.
Mission-Driven Partners
Amped Data Solutions, founded in 2021 by Emile, believes that data should not be intimidating or reserved for experts. Their mission is to make data accessible and actionable for nonprofits, small businesses, and underserved communities. Whether helping a nonprofit measure impact or supporting a small business's decision-making, Amped Data Solutions is shifting the narrative: from complexity to clarity. As a meaningful extension of their partnership, Amped Data Solutions also made a generous $500 donation to UFCF in support of the Future Leaders United (FLU) Program. This contribution directly supports ongoing mentorship, educational enrichment, and leadership development for youth across Central Florida. It is a testament to Amped Data’s commitment not only to innovation in data accessibility but also to uplifting the communities they serve.
Meanwhile, the Central Florida Urban League—a trusted community institution for more than 47 years—continues to lead transformative efforts focused on the “Three Es”: Education, Employment, and Entrepreneurship. As an affiliate of the National Urban League, CFUL has served over 100,000 residents with programs designed to break the cycle of generational poverty.
A Lasting Impact
UFCF CEO Sandra Fatmi-Hall praised the collective effort and highlighted how meaningful partnerships can produce measurable results:
“This event was a true testament to what we can accomplish when community-based organizations come together in purpose,” said Fatmi-Hall. “Our FLU students showed incredible heart and leadership—packing nearly 200 kits while engaging with professionals who challenged them to think bigger. These are the kinds of experiences that leave lasting impact.”
For UFCF and its FLU Program, events like this reinforce a mission that has already helped more than 1,000 youth through mentoring, civic engagement, and life skills development. With continued support from community partners, the path toward equity, empowerment, and opportunity grows stronger with every step.
The Future Leaders United (FLU) After-School Enrichment and Mentoring Program is the cornerstone youth initiative of the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc. Designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders, the FLU Program engages middle and high school students in a dynamic curriculum built around seven core pillars: College Readiness, Career Preparedness, Leadership Development, Financial Literacy, STEAM Education, Health & Wellness, and Life After High School.
Through weekly programming, mentorship, service-learning, and exposure to academic and career opportunities, FLU empowers students to discover their passions, strengthen their character, and build the skills necessary for lifelong success. The program is rooted in equity, personal growth, and community engagement—ensuring that every participant not only dreams big but is equipped to pursue those dreams with purpose and confidence.
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About UFCF
Since its founding in 2014, the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc. (UFCF) has remained committed to empowering youth and families through education, leadership, and service. Through its flagship Future Leaders United (FLU) Program, UFCF has graduated 243 students—of whom 288 have gone on to college, 10 have joined the military, and 2 have entered vocational or trade careers. The organization has distributed over 7.3 million pounds of food, equivalent to 6.1 million meals, and awarded more than $350,000 in educational scholarships. UFCF volunteers have contributed more than 180,000 service hours, and the organization’s total economic impact has reached $36 million. From after-school mentoring to civic engagement, UFCF continues to be a driving force for equity and empowerment in Central Florida.
