Statement from Our Founder

Fenix Youth Project, Inc. has made the decision to decline the $530 check from Market Street Inn from the Guest Bartending event held January 19, 2025. This decision comes in light of recent events that are deeply misaligned with our organization’s values and mission.

We want to acknowledge and express our gratitude to the young people who work downtown who took the initiative to support Fenix. We recognize that $330 of the funds came directly from the bartenders, and $100 from the DJ—individuals who believed in our work and showed up for our cause. Their generosity is deeply appreciated.

However, as an organization founded by a Black woman and governed by Black leaders, we cannot, in good conscience, accept these funds. Doing so would be counterintuitive to the principles we stand for. We strongly encourage Market Street Inn to return the money to those who donated, believing they were supporting our organization.

Additionally, as an arts organization, we believe that music and the arts do not have a race. The ongoing discrimination against DJs and the labeling of music as "Black" or "White" is not only harmful but completely goes against the universal nature of artistic expression. We call on all businesses in downtown Salisbury and the surrounding areas to end these discriminatory practices and create truly inclusive spaces where all forms of music and artistry are valued.

Fenix Youth Project remains committed to uplifting and advocating for marginalized youth. We stand firm in our values and will continue to push for equity, justice, and accountability in our community.

Amber Green

Founder of Fenix Youth Project Inc.

Volunteers Needed for Writing Workshops – Make a Difference from Anywhere!

Are you passionate about poetry and creative writing? Do you have experience in guiding others through the art of self-expression and storytelling? We need you! Fenix Youth Project is seeking volunteers for our Rhyme Rhythm Redemption Writing Workshops, held virtually every Wednesday from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm. Whether you're across the street or across the globe, this is your opportunity to help shape the futures of young people in our community.

What is Rhyme Rhythm Redemption?

Rhyme Rhythm Redemption is a powerful, arts-based program designed to give young people the tools to express themselves through poetry and creative writing. Through weekly workshops, participants engage in the healing and transformative power of words, learning to channel their emotions and experiences into poetry. This program not only cultivates artistic expression but also builds critical thinking and communication skills that are essential for personal growth and success.

The workshops are a safe space for youth to explore their identities, struggles, and dreams while fostering a sense of community and belonging. By guiding participants in the art of creative writing, we’re helping them discover healthier ways to cope with challenges they face, particularly those related to trauma, gang violence, and the risk of incarceration.

Why Does This Matter?

Youth who are at risk of entering the justice system or getting involved in gangs often lack the support and mentorship that could guide them to a different path. Rhyme Rhythm Redemption aims to intervene before these young people go down a destructive road. Through writing, they can reframe their narratives, build confidence, and find a sense of purpose. Poetry has the power to show them that they are more than their circumstances—that their voices matter.

By volunteering with this program, you’ll be playing an integral role in helping divert youth from the harmful cycle of incarceration and violence. Your expertise can help them unlock their potential, leading them toward positive futures and away from pathways that limit their opportunities.

How You Can Make an Impact

As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside young people as they discover the art of poetry and creative writing. You’ll provide guidance, feedback, and encouragement to help them refine their work and express themselves in meaningful ways. No matter where you are in the world, you can make a lasting impact on these youth’s lives by simply sharing your knowledge and passion for writing.

We are looking for volunteers with experience in:

• Poetry writing

• Creative writing

• Mentorship and youth engagement

If you have a love for the written word and a commitment to empowering youth, your involvement will make a real difference.

Join Us in Building a Stronger, Safer Community

By volunteering for the Rhyme Rhythm Redemption Writing Workshops, you will contribute directly to creating a safer, more inclusive community. Your time and expertise will help youth explore their creativity, find new ways to express themselves, and ultimately divert from harmful situations. With your support, we can offer these young people the opportunity for a brighter future—one where their voices are heard, and their paths are guided by hope, not hardship.

Ready to make a difference? Sign up today and help us ignite the power of poetry to transform lives!

For more information or to volunteer, please reach out to volunteer4fyp@fenixyouthproject.org

Together, we can help these youth rhyme their way to redemption.

Letter of Accountability

Dear Community,

During the past month, the newly appointed Fenix Youth Project Executive Board and the Youth Action Board have informed me of essential issues of concern within our organization. I am writing to issue a formal and official statement to our community and to answer the call to take accountability.

This announcement is only a fragment of our ongoing effort to transparently communicate fully what has happened and the steps we are taking to effectively work toward addressing issues within our organization.

We do not underestimate the urgency of the youth homelessness crisis. In moving expeditiously, we’ve made some oversights and misjudgments, which have impacted the integral and central aspects of our work

Regrettably, due to a lack of revenue, we were unable to meet our financial obligations on time, leading to delays in expenditure. This financial strain has had a profound impact on the Fenix Youth Project, affecting the youth we serve who are striving to transition from unstable housing to secure housing or are currently experiencing homelessness and housing instability.

Significant gaps in effective follow-ups, funding, and accountability compounded this. This should not have occurred. We are working on additional counteractive and remedial measures as an organization and assessing issues associated with our internal operations. We are working to address these critical challenges.

Our commitment to our mission remains unwavering. We are dedicated to enhancing our infrastructure, closely monitoring operational costs, prioritizing expenses, engaging in extensive fundraising, and ultimately re-centering as an organization

Improving our infrastructure and progression requires our complete attention. As a result, I, in consultation with the Fenix Youth Project Executive Board and the Youth Board, have made the necessary and difficult decision to close the Fenix Youth Project Arts & Media Center.

I am grateful to participate in this mission and will continue working with the communities to end youth homelessness. I extend my heartfelt apologies to all those impacted.

Yours Truly,

Amber Green

Founder and Executive Director

FENIX YOUTH PROJECT, INC.