C.H.E.E.R.S. to a Better Community!

Our Story

Where Our CHEERS Began

508 C.H.E.E.R.S. was created from lived experience, community love, and a deep belief in the power of youth leadership. Founded in 2022 by Echo Louissaint, a former Clark University basketball player, the program began as a response to the rising teen violence she witnessed in the city. What started as a small sports based group quickly grew into a space where youth could feel safe, supported, and connected.

As young people shared their experiences and needs, the program evolved moving from basketball to hands on community service, food justice work, and youth driven advocacy. The group began stocking community fridges, supporting community gardens, cleaning public spaces, creating equity kits, and leading projects that uplift families across Worcester. Through the Worcester Community Action Council’s YouthWorks program, some participants are even paid to participate in 508 C.H.E.E.R.S. Signature 6 Week Community Service Mentorship program that runs two to three times a year.

Today, 508 C.H.E.E.R.S. has grown into a citywide youth empowerment movement grounded in mentorship, service, advocacy, and community care. We partner closely with schools, families, and local organizations to offer meaningful programming that meets the real needs of Worcester youth and provides much needed safe spaces for healing, leadership, and belonging.

Our story continues to grow every time a young person discovers their voice, leads a project, or realizes that they have the power to create change for themselves and for their community.

Why Your CHEERS Matters

Our young people deserve safe spaces, strong mentors, opportunities for leadership, and the chance to see themselves as change makers. Through service, advocacy, mutual aid, and wellness programming, we help youth build confidence, pride, purpose, and a sense of possibility.

Donate Now

Our Values

What Makes us CHEERS

C — Culture and 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 and Wellness

Promoting mental, social, emotional, and physical well being through education, fitness, and self care practices.

E — Equity and Empowerment

Advocating for fairness, belonging, and youth centered leadership that uplifts our community.

E — Education and Enrichment

Providing hands on experiences in civic leadership, healthy habits, and career readiness that inspire lifelong learning.

S — Service

Believing that serving others is one of the greatest purposes in life, we empower youth to discover the joy in giving, supporting, and uplifting others.

Explore Our Programs