​​William A. Young

Founder/President

 

 

William Allen Young is a celebrated actor, director, and philanthropist who is recognized for his starring roles in more than 100 television, stage, and film projects—including the Academy Award-nominated A Soldier’s Story and District 9.  With a prolific career spanning four decades, he is one of Hollywood’s most accomplished and respected actors.  Mr. Young is also a staunch advocate for education reform and economic empowerment, particularly within underserved communities of Los Angeles.

 

When dozens of Los Angeles schools faced collapse, Mr. Young created the Young Foundation to confront the crisis head-on.  Partnering with the Los Angeles Unified School District, he mobilized parents, volunteers, and local organizations, launching a range of initiatives—from academic support and mentoring programs to free breakfast initiatives, leadership training, financial literacy workshops, college preparation, and scholarships.  His work has provided thousands of young people with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

 

For more than 30 years, he has worked tirelessly to transform lives and empower future generations through his nonprofit, the Young Center for Academic and Cultural Enrichment.  Under his visionary leadership, the organization has provided vital educational programs to promote student success and close the achievement gap, equipping underserved youth with the tools to break generational cycles of poverty, become first-generation college graduates, and emerge as leaders of their communities.

Mr. Young is the recipient of numerous honors, including: the Ford Foundation Freedom Unsung Award, NAACP Social Achievement Award, CDE Hero in Education Award, the Jenesse Silver Rose Award, the President’s Icon Award, the OASC Living Legend Award, and he was inducted in the National Speech & Debate Hall of Fame.

 

Mr. Young is a devoted husband, a loving father, and an inspirational mentor to countless young people and families across Los Angeles County.  His unwavering commitment to service continues to transform lives, leaving an enduring legacy of opportunity, empowerment, and community strength for generations to come.