Campers Take Flight: Experience Austin’s Public Safety
Discover how Urban University is shaping future leaders today through hands-on learning, public safety career exploration, and meaningful community experiences.
Taking Learning to New Heights: Urban University Campers Experience Austin Public Safety Up Close
Urban University Summer Camp continues to inspire and engage our youth, and this week, learning truly took flight!
Our campers had an unforgettable experience during a special helicopter visit led by Austin PD-area public safety professionals. Students had the opportunity to get an up-close look at the helicopter, learn about aviation, and explore career pathways in public safety, emergency response, and aviation services.
This hands-on experience sparked curiosity, excitement, and meaningful conversations about future possibilities. Moments like these are what Urban University is all about; connecting learning to real-world opportunities and exposing our youth to careers they can aspire to achieve.
From STEM and entrepreneurship to career exploration and leadership development, our campers continue to grow, explore, and dream big each day. We are proud to provide experiences that expand horizons and empower the next generation of leaders.
AAYHF Celebrates Juneteenth
At the African American Youth Harvest Foundation, Juneteenth is more than a moment of remembrance, it is a powerful reflection of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward equity.
This day reminds us why our work matters. Every program we offer, every resource we provide, and every opportunity we create is rooted in a shared belief: that our communities deserve access, support, and the chance to thrive.
Through our youth development programs, family services, and community outreach efforts, we remain committed to building pathways forward, creating spaces where young people are empowered, families are strengthened, and our community continues to grow together.
Happy Juneteenth.
AAYHF Featured in The Manor Journal: Expanding Access Through Harvest Manor
The African American Youth Harvest Foundation is proud to be featured in The Manor Journal, highlighting the launch of our new Manor Satellite Pantry and Outreach Hub.
The article spotlights our partnership with Manor ISD and the grand opening of the Harvest Manor Food Pantry, a space designed to provide food, resources, and support to families in need.
Since opening, the pantry has already served hundreds of families, offering not only food, but access to clothing, household goods, and community services through strong local partnerships.
AAYHF Celebrates Successful Launch of Manor Satellite Pantry Serving Over 500
Throughout the day, the African American Youth Harvest Foundation was fully in action, serving families, meeting immediate needs, and creating a space where everyone felt seen, supported, and valued. Our team, alongside dedicated volunteers and partners, worked tirelessly to ensure every family who arrived left with more than they came for.
Families received food, clothing, household goods, and personal care items; essentials that make a real difference at home. But what truly set the day apart was the level of care behind every interaction. Volunteers and staff didn’t just distribute items, they walked alongside families, helped load vehicles, answered questions, and made meaningful connections every step of the way.
In addition to vital resources, community members had the opportunity to engage with service providers offering support in workforce development, health services, education, and family support. It was a full-circle moment of access, connection, and empowerment, all in one place.
AAYHF Manor Food Pantry – Now Open
600 East Parsons Street, Building 300 | Manor, Texas
Regular Pantry Hours beginning June 24, 2026:
- Wednesdays: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Fridays: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Monthly Community Resource & Distribution Days:
- Second Saturday of each month | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Upcoming Dates: July 11, August 8, September 12, October 10, November 14, December 12
During these monthly events, families can access a full-service food pantry, a community resource and vendor fair, household goods, and clothing distribution.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who showed up, stepped in, and served with heart. Because of you, along with our incredible vendors and volunteers, we were able to serve over 500 families, providing not just support, but access to opportunity and hope.
Beyond the Badge: AAYHF Helps Shape Community-Focused Policing
We had the honor of welcoming the 158th Austin Police Department Cadet Class to the African American Youth Harvest Foundation for a meaningful day of conversation and connection. Led by our CEO, Mr. Michael Lofton, alongside Program and Case Management Supervisor Soleece Watson and Harvest Trauma Recovery Center Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Calvin Kelly, the session centered on what community policing truly looks like in practice.
Through honest dialogue, our team shared the importance of building genuine relationships, supporting whole families, and approaching every interaction, especially those involving trauma, with empathy, care, and a focus on prevention.
We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with APD and pour into the next generation of officers as we continue working together to build safer, stronger, and more connected communities.
Learning, Growing, Thriving: Urban University Camp Keeps the Momentum Going
The momentum continues at Urban University Summer Camp! As we move into Week 4, our youth are building on three incredible weeks filled with hands-on learning, workforce development, engaging classroom activities, and exciting field trips.
Urban University is designed to do more than just keep youth engaged, it’s a high-impact program focused on preventing summer learning loss while equipping participants with real-world skills and opportunities for future success.
As we head into another exciting week, we’re looking forward to even more exploration, field trips, and opportunities for connection and discovery.
Back to School Community Party
We’re gearing up for our 2026 Back 2 School Community Party, and you don’t want to miss it!
August 15, 2026 | 10 AM – 2 PM
6633 Hwy 290 East, Austin, TX 78723
Join us for a day full of free backpacks and school supplies with registration required, delicious food, games, bounce houses, community performances, and resource booths for the whole family.
Last year, we served over 900 youth, and this year we’re ready to make an even bigger impact.
Support Our Back-to-School Supply Drive
We are currently collecting essential school supplies to help ensure every child starts the school year prepared and confident. Needed items include backpacks, notebooks, pencils, and more.
Donations are being accepted now through August 1, 2026, at:
6633 Hwy 290 East, Austin, TX 78723
Together, we can equip our youth for success and make this school year one to remember.
We Need Your Support: Help Keep Our Food Pantries Strong
At the African American Youth Harvest Foundation, meeting the immediate needs of our families is at the heart of our mission and our two food pantries play a vital role in that commitment. Each week, we serve community members who rely on these resources to keep healthy meals on the table, especially during times of rising costs and ongoing hardship.
To continue providing consistent, high-quality support, we need your help. Our pantries depend on community generosity to stay stocked with fresh produce, non-perishable items, household essentials, and hygiene products. Every contribution, whether it’s funding or volunteer time, directly impacts a family in need.
Please consider supporting our food pantries. Together, we can ensure that no family in our community goes without the nourishment and stability they deserve.
Watch the Highlights
Catch recent news coverage and special video moments featuring AAYHF’s work in the community.
Make Your Investment Today
This is a pivotal moment for AAYHF, Austin, and communities nationwide seeking genuine, replicable solutions rooted in dignity and healing.
Together, we can ensure that the Beloved Community is not only remembered but also made into a reality.
We invite you to stand with us and make your donation today.