Our Mission

To improve the quality of life for all citizens of Greater New Orleans by creating structured opportunities and discipline for at-risk youth through the development of programs designed to build leadership, confidence, and instill life-long skills.

Our Vision

To be the preeminent provider of opportunities for the youth of New Orleans, providing a future of empowerment and self-sufficiency.

Our Founders

Co-founded in October 2008 in memory of Joey Georgusis by the Georgusis family and James Bernazzani, former FBI Special Agent in Charge of the New Orleans Division.

During his stellar career as a lawman and crime fighter, Jim witnessed first-hand the effects of troubled youth on society.  His expertise in law enforcement, at-risk youth, and youth empowerment issues, combined with a Harvard education and strong commitment to our community and its children make him uniquely qualified to address the issues we now face.

Our Stakeholders

Improving the quality of life for all citizens of the Greater New Orleans area begins with empowering the children of today.

Through the investment in opportunity and options for today’s at-risk youth, YRI and stakeholders can together create a better community and change the future of our city.  Stakeholders include, but are not limited to, business leaders, politicians, educators, recreation, the clergy, the media, parole and truancy.

It is with you, the New Orleans community, that the YRI can develop and fund programs designed to build skills and teach function to children as they grow into adulthood.