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What is the CROWN Initiative?

The CROWN Initiative is a trauma-informed, equity-centered youth development program designed to empower BIPOC and justice-involved youth across rural Eastern North Carolina. Our mission is to help youth reclaim their power, discover their potential, and build sustainable futures through a comprehensive blend of technology, entrepreneurship, and emotional wellness training.

Who We Serve

We focus on young people ages 16–24 who face barriers such as:

  • Disconnection from school or employment

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  • Reentry from the justice system

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  • Aging out of foster care

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  • Economic hardship and broadband exclusion

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  • Emotional trauma or lack of mentorship

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Our participants are not underperforming — they are underserved.

What We Offer

The CROWN Initiative is delivered in three 12-week cohorts each year, supported by:

Tech 4 Teens Track

  • Learn digital tools like Google Workspace, Canva, Excel, and website design

     

  • Build a professional digital portfolio

     

  • Explore entrepreneurship through business idea development and public pitching

Crown Yourself Track

  • A 5-pillar curriculum that builds:

     

    • Identity and Self-Worth

       

    • Emotional Regulation

       

    • Structure and Goal Setting

       

    • Community Service

       

    • Legacy and Leadership

       

  • Grounded in trauma-informed, culturally affirming practices

Grant HQ & Financial Literacy

  • Learn to budget, save, and build credit

     

  • Complete financial literacy modules

     

  • Open your first bank account

     

  • Understand how to fund your business or education goals

Outcomes You can Expect

We measure success by transformation, not just completion.

  • ✅  80% of youth increase digital fluency
    ✅  75% build a business plan and pitch publicly
    ✅  65% complete financial literacy and open a bank account
    ✅  70% meet education or employment goals within 6 months
    ✅  60% of system-involved youth show reduced recidivism
    ✅  Measurable growth in confidence, self-worth, and resilience

How the Program Works

  • Hybrid Delivery:

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Online + In-person (community hubs like OIC of Rocky Mount and grassroots partners)

  • Alumni Fellowship:

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 A 3-month leadership & mentorship track after graduation

  • Saturday Labs:

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Monthly skill-building and coaching events

  • Wraparound Support:

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Includes stipends, meals, transportation assistance, bilingual instruction, and take-home devices

Why It Matters

Rural communities across Edgecombe, Halifax, Nash, and beyond face systemic disinvestment and digital exclusion. We are creating pathways that connect identity to opportunity—ensuring our youth don’t just survive but thrive.

Join Us

Whether you’re a young person looking for direction, a community partner ready to collaborate, or a funder interested in making long-term impact, the CROWN Initiative welcomes you.

Learn More About Our ProgramsGet Involved

We believe in collaboration and community-led efforts in economic development.

We work closely with local organizations, government agencies, and businesses to create tailored programs and initiatives that address the unique needs of underserved communities.

By working together, we can create a more equitable and prosperous society for all.

MEET THE FOUNDER & CEO

Bridget Phifer

Meet Bridget Phifer, CEO of Living Better Life LLC. Her inspiring journey is one of both triumph and perseverance, shaping her into the leader she is today.

Discover her purpose as she shares how overcoming challenges led her to become the bridge for others that she once needed herself.

  • A lesson on resilience and purpose
  • A Mission rooted in compassion
  • Transforming families and communities

Success Story on Page 9