Lasting Change Starts Here
We believe talent is equally distributed, but opportunity is not. We're on a mission to change that.
Driving Differentiated Impact
Year Up United was founded on a commitment to expanding access and opportunity. We envision a world where everyone has equal opportunity to achieve their full potential, and we know it will take multiple approaches and solutions to realize this vision. For 25 years we have catalyzed change in the talent and business landscape, delivering comprehensive solutions that drive material impact on lives, businesses, and communities.
Introducing Year Up United
"The journey that guided our relaunch was one of discovery and deep understanding. Discovery of the ever-evolving dynamics in the business environment and world of work; and a deep understanding of the solutions needed to cultivate the workforce of the future, and meet communities and businesses where they are to drive lasting societal change.
Through this process, we learned that we must remain steadfast in our mission. In a world that’s undergoing significant transformation driven by digital disruption and innovation, ongoing fluctuations in the economic environment, and evolving expectations of business, our mission to end the Opportunity Divide—the divide that exists between business hiring needs and untapped talent—has never been more important." - Ellen McClain, Former CEO & President
Reimagining Futures
At Year Up United, we are empowering young people by connecting them to real opportunities, welcoming them into a world that values their skills over their pedigree. But we don't stop there, Year Up United students and alumni have access to differentiated support through every step of their career journeys and a community of more than 35,000 like-minded professionals who effect change across the country through their continued success.
Opportunity for Everyone
Year Up United was founded on the belief that opportunity belongs to everyone, not just a select few. This means challenging systems and changing mindsets, promoting inclusion and belonging, and ensuring access to economic opportunity for all young adults, no matter their background, income, or zip code.
Because what distinguishes one human being's potential from another is not ability, but access.
Our Impact
$53,000
Average starting salary of Year Up United graduates
52,000+
Participants served to date
72%
Graduates employed and/or enrolled in postsecondary education within 4 months of program completion
20+
Markets served across the US
92%
Alumni satisfaction rate
Our Awards Recognition
Charity Navigator has rated Year Up United a four-star charity over 15 times, placing us in the top 1% of tracked organizations.
Year Up United earned a 2025 Platinum Seal of Transparency with Candid, the highest level, which demonstrates our commitment to transparency.
Our Leadership
Susan Murray
Interim CEO, Year Up United
Susan Murray is Interim Chief Executive Officer of Year Up United, a national workforce development organization committed to expanding access to economic opportunity for all young adults and providing talent, business, and community solutions to reshape the world of work.
Meet our full executive team, board of directors, and other advisors reworking the future with us.
Make a Difference
By supporting Year Up United, you’re helping to transform the futures of talented young adults across the country. From donations to volunteers, we’re working together to make a tangible impact on each and every young adult’s life.