Founded: 2002

Youth Action International, or YAI, was established in 2002 to develop and implement programs that help alleviate the suffering of children affected by war or living in difficult circumstances and to empower them to reach their full potential. We are a growing network of young people using grassroots techniques to support the vision of war-affected communities as they strive to support their children. Our programs are strategically developed to break cycles of violence and poverty.

Founded by Kimmie Weeks, who as a child experienced violence and human suffering in the Liberian Civil War, YAI now embraces his dream of a world where no child subsists without the basic necessities of life. We connect young people in developed countries with those living in areas of need. We inform young people in industrialized countries about the plight of the world's children and channel their desire to create positive social change. We create tangible opportunities for young people to take action.