Empower  Educate  Equip  Students.

Because every student deserves the chance to reach their full potential.

Youth in South Dallas and Oak Cliff
Have Access to Diverse Opportunities

The Dallas ZIP codes 75210, 75241, 75216, and 75215 covering South Dallas and Oak Cliff form the most historically underrepresented area in Metropolitan Dallas. However, through community partnerships, thriving initiatives, and committed stakeholders these youth have access to diverse opportunities.

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Public 4-year university in the City of Dallas is located in south Oak Cliff serving as an anchor institution to the surrounding community.
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Employment in the Dallas metropolitan area has expanded 20.3% over the past five years – including 4.2% in the last year alone – with robust job creation in professional and business services, as well as sectors like tech, health, retail, wholesale trade and hospitality.
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College enrollment rate, compared to state average 57%
(Source: Dallas ISD)
This community houses many nonprofits and community based organizations dedicated too serving the community by promoting pro-social approaches to holistic community development.

Rising Blazers Offers Additional Opportunities

Rising Blazers at UNTD provides mentorship, youth leadership, and after-school programs to children and youth in South Dallas and Oak Cliff.

Our goal is to help our students develop academically, socially, and emotionally today—so they can become equipped to be change-makers in their communities tomorrow.

Rising Blazers logo

All of Our Programs Emphasize
Our Four Core Pillars

Post-High School Readiness

Post-high school readiness includes preparing young people for their transition from school to the multiple pathways after high school graduation.

Mentorship

Mentorship facilitates an ongoing and positive relationship between the youth and a caring adult who helps the youth as he or she goes through life.

Youth Leadership Development

Youth Leadership Development prepares youth to meet the challenges of adolescence through a series of structured, progressive activities and experiences that help them to develop leadership skills.

Youth Advisory Committee

The goal of YAC is for a consistent group of youth to provide input, give feedback and help to shape the local CYD program. YAC includes 10-20 youth comprised of both middle and high-school. YAC meets monthly in person or virtually.

Partnering With Service Providers to Help Youth Rise

Fostering a sense of community and belonging, while improving mental and emotional health.

Together, we’ve witnessed our students improve academic performance, increase attendance, and increase high school graduation rates. Through participation, youth are prepared for post-high school endeavors, including actively being the change in their communities.

Rise Up and Reach Your Full Potential

Become a Rising Blazer to rise up in school and life, and to make a difference in your community.