The inception of YENDOW came through the Ibadan Grammar School Old Students Association of North America (IGSOSANA), inspired by their continuous support to their alma mater amidst government neglect. This situation at IGS is not isolated but reflects a broader issue prevalent across many public secondary schools in Nigeria. 

You can learn more by visiting the Our Story page.

Yendow is governed by a Board of Trustees (BOT),  and an Executive Management Team (EMT) which is led by a Managing Director. The team contribute their diverse perspectives, backgrounds and expertise to help guide and strengthen the endowment’s governance and strategic direction.

You can read more about our team on the website’s Meet the Team page.

Our  leadership do not operate the endowment with any intent to profit from its charitable activities. Furthermore, all private foundations like ours are subject to legal restrictions that prohibit them from being operated in ways that personally benefit their founders. Any financial earnings by Yendow and profits realized by the endowment’s Strategic Investment Fund charitable holdings must be used for charitable purposes. Under this structure, we hope to empower youths, educate them and help some of Nigeria’s neediest youths.

Yendow currently works with youths Ibadan Grammar School in Ibadan, Oyo State.

1. Donate Financially: One of the most direct ways to support YENDOW is through financial donations. Your contributions help fund scholarships, educational materials, and the various empowerment programs that YENDOW offers to IGS youths. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

2. Volunteer Your Time: YENDOW relies on the dedication of volunteers to run its programs effectively. Whether you can offer your expertise in teaching, mentoring, or organizing community events, your time and skills are invaluable to us. Volunteering is a rewarding way to directly engage with the community and see the impact of your contribution.

3. Provide Mentorship: If you have experience in particular industries or academic fields, consider becoming a mentor. YENDOW seeks professionals who can guide and inspire the next generation by sharing their knowledge and experiences. Mentorship can be conducted through workshops, one-on-one sessions, or even remotely.

4. Partner with Us: Businesses and other organizations can partner with YENDOW to expand the reach and effectiveness of our programs. Partnerships might include sponsorship opportunities, in-kind donations, or collaborative projects that align with your organization’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives.

5. Spread the Word: Help raise awareness about YENDOW’s mission and programs by sharing information within your network, on social media, or by hosting informational events. Increasing visibility can attract more support, volunteers, and beneficiaries to our cause.

6. Engage in Fundraising Initiatives: Organize or participate in fundraising events such as charity runs, auctions, or concerts. Fundraising events are crucial for generating necessary funds and also serve as a platform to inform and involve the community in our endeavors.

7. Offer Internships or Job Opportunities: If you own a business or manage a company, consider offering internships or job placements to graduates of YENDOW’s programs. This not only aids in the practical application of their skills but also supports their transition into the workforce.

By contributing to YENDOW, you are investing in the future of a Nigerian youth and the overall development of the nation. Your involvement can make a profound difference in countless lives, empowering young individuals to achieve their potential and contribute positively to society.

Yes, you can set up an endowment in your name or to honor someone through YENDOW. Setting up an endowment is a meaningful way to create a lasting legacy and make a significant impact on the organization’s ability to empower and educate Nigerian youth. Here’s how you can proceed:

Steps to Set Up an Endowment with YENDOW:

1. Determine the Purpose and Goals: Decide what you want the endowment to achieve. This could be funding scholarships, supporting specific programs like STEM education or entrepreneurship, or any other area that aligns with YENDOW’s mission and your interests.
2. Contact YENDOW: Reach out to YENDOW to express your interest in establishing an endowment. You can find detailed information on how to proceed, including any minimum funding requirements and legal considerations here.
3. Decide on the Fund Structure: You will need to decide whether the endowment will be permanently endowed (where only the income generated is used) or quasi-endowed (where the principal can also be spent under certain conditions). This decision will affect how the endowment is managed and how it supports the organization over time.
4. Naming the Endowment: You can name the endowment after yourself, a loved one, or someone you wish to honor. This is a profound way to ensure that the honoree’s legacy is remembered and associated with positive change.
5. Work Out the Financial Details: Establish how much you want to contribute initially and whether you will be making additional contributions over time. You might also want to consider setting up a plan for others to contribute to the endowment, such as through gifts or bequests.
6. Formalize the Agreement: You will need to formalize your commitment through a written agreement with YENDOW. This document will outline the purpose of the endowment, the management of the funds, and any specific wishes you have regarding the use of the endowment income.
7. Promote and Manage the Endowment: Once established, you can work with YENDOW to track the impact of your endowment and share its successes to inspire additional support from the community.

By creating an endowment with YENDOW, you are ensuring sustainable support for empowering Nigerian youths, making a lasting difference in their lives and the broader community.

Endowments are a particularly powerful investment in YENDOW’s future because they deliver a dependable, perpetual source of funding for our programs.

Click here for how it works.