Mission & Vision
Our mission
508 C.H.E.E.R.S. empowers youth across the Worcester community to serve, advocate, and lead.
We focus on supporting BIPOC, low-income, and underserved youth as they take action on food insecurity, mental health and wellness, and equity in their communities. We do this through mentorship, community service, and mutual aid projects that we undertake with mission-aligned community partners.
We strengthen our community by helping youth build their confidence, find their purpose, and discover their power to create a better future.
Our vision
We envision a thriving Worcester community that is just, equitable, and compassionate. In our community, youth feel they belong because:
- Every young person always has access to food that nourishes their bodies and fuels their growth.
- Young women have consistent access to period products, accurate education about their bodies, and the dignity to advocate for what they need without shame.
- Youth have access to mental health care that helps them regulate big emotions, stay attuned to stress signals in their bodies, and navigate traumatic experiences safely.
- Every young person has access to mentorship from someone they trust and admire.
- Youth see leaders in their local government who look and sound like them.
- Youth engage in enrichment activities that build their confidence and help them discover a sense of purpose and identity they can be proud of.
- Youth understand the issues facing their community and know that their voices will be heard when they offer their perspectives, insights, and solutions.
- Youth know how to take action in their community for others, and trust that their community will also be there for them when they need it.
Our values
C
Culture & Connection
Celebrating the diverse cultures and stories that shape our youth, while creating spaces where every young person feels seen, valued, and connected.
H
Health & Wellness
Promoting mental, social, emotional, and physical well being through education, fitness, and self care practices.
E
Equity & Empowerment
Advocating for fairness, belonging, and youth centered leadership that uplifts our community and preserves dignity.
E
Education & Enrichment
Providing hands on experiences in civic leadership, healthy habits, and career readiness that inspire lifelong learning.
R
Roots & Representation
Honoring the families, traditions, and heritage that anchor our youth, while ensuring they see themselves reflected in the leaders, mentors, and decision-makers shaping their community.
S
Service
We believe that serving others is one of the greatest purposes in life, and we empower youth to discover the joy of giving, supporting, and uplifting others.