LA PLATA, Md. — A recent Empower Him: Raising Kings Together Summit, hosted by the Youth Empower Me Foundation, brought families from across Southern Maryland and the surrounding DMV area together for a day focused on leadership, emotional growth and family connection.
The event, led by longtime counselor Olivia Coffey, gathered boys ages 8 to 18 alongside their parents, grandparents and mentors for workshops and discussions centered on real-life skills — ranging from financial literacy and emotional management to communication within the home.
For Coffey, the work is deeply personal.
More than three decades into her career as an elementary school counselor, she recalls a moment that shaped the direction of her life’s mission. A young student once repeated something he had heard — that he might not live past the age of 12.
“That was a turning point,” Coffey said. “Not on my watch.”
That mindset would eventually lead her beyond the classroom and into the community.
From Classroom To Community
Coffey, a wife of 27 years and mother of two adult sons, said her experience both professionally and personally reinforced one consistent truth: children succeed when they are supported not just at school, but at home.
That belief led her to create the Youth Empower Me Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on equipping families with the tools needed to support youth development outside of traditional classroom settings.
Since its launch during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 as a virtual effort, the organization has grown into a series of in-person programs and annual summits, including alternating events focused on empowering both young men and young women.
What The Summit Provides
The Empower Him Summit is designed to bring families into the same space — not just as observers, but as participants.
Sessions throughout the day focused on:
- Financial literacy and decision-making
- Emotional control and self-regulation
- Entrepreneurship and creative thinking
- Co-parenting and family communication
The structure is intentional. Coffey said many of the challenges she observed as a counselor stemmed from inconsistent messaging between school and home.
“When families are aligned, children are better equipped to make strong decisions,” she said.
The event also included panel discussions featuring community leaders and mentors, as well as interactive opportunities for families to engage directly with local organizations offering year-round support services.
Access And Community Support
A key focus of the foundation’s work is accessibility.
Through fundraising efforts, sponsorships and partnerships with local organizations, the foundation provides scholarships to families who may not otherwise be able to attend.
Mentors and community partners also sponsor participation, helping ensure that financial barriers do not prevent families from accessing the program.
Coffey said that approach reflects the broader mission behind the organization.
“This is about making sure every child has access to support, regardless of their circumstances,” she said.
Growing Beyond A Single Event
What began as a single initiative has expanded into a regional effort, drawing participants from multiple counties, including Charles County, Prince George’s County and Washington, D.C.
While the annual summit serves as a central gathering, Coffey said the long-term goal is to continue expanding programming and partnerships throughout the year.
The foundation is currently seeking additional sponsors and community partners to support future events and potentially increase the number of annual summits.
Looking Ahead
At its core, Coffey said the mission remains focused on one goal: helping young people recognize their value and potential while giving families the tools to support them.
“This work is bigger than one event,” she said. “It’s about building something that lasts.”
More information about the Youth Empower Me Foundation, including future programs and opportunities to get involved, can be found at: www.youthempowerme.org
Final Thought
The message behind the work is simple, but consistent.
It’s about making sure young people grow up with the support, structure and belief they need to succeed.
And for Coffey, it all goes back to that defining moment — one she still carries with her today:
Not on her watch.
