our mission
KinCultivate strengthens the conditions for Black youth and their families to thrive in Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley by building an intergenerational ecosystem of support.
KinCultivate is a Black-led, community-rooted organization serving Linn and Benton counties in Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley. We build culturally grounded youth programs, family support, and partnerships that help reduce isolation and strengthen the relationships Black youth and their families need to thrive. Our work is rooted in the belief that thriving does not happen by chance. It requires intergenerational support and stronger conditions around Black youth and their families.
our vision
We envision a Mid-Willamette Valley where Black youth and their families are no longer isolated from opportunity, support, or the systems that shape their lives. In this future, culturally grounded support is part of the fabric of the region, and Black youth grow up with the confidence and community to shape their futures wherever they go.
our story
Our organization was originally founded in Eugene, Oregon, with a vision of empowerment and resilience. Originally known as Kids for the Culture, it became a nonprofit in 2020 after years of dedicated work supporting Black youth in the community. In August 2022, we underwent a significant change in leadership, marking the beginning of a new chapter. Since then, our team has focused on introducing our organization to the Linn-Benton community, finding a new home in Albany, Oregon.
As we transition to our new identity as KinCultivate, we recognize the roots from which we've grown. Our commitment to nurturing the positive identity development of youth of African descent remains unwavering. Our mission centers on cultivating a strong sense of kinship and belonging within our community, as we continue to adapt to the unique needs of our Black youth, their families, and the broader community in the Linn-Benton area.
the challenge
In Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley, many Black youth grow up as one of very few youth of African descent in their schools and communities. Local and regional data show ongoing barriers around school support and safety, and families continue to name the need for stronger, culturally grounded relationships. Over time, that kind of isolation can affect trust, belonging, and emotional wellbeing.
our response
KinCultivate helps build the conditions around Black youth that make connection and support more possible. Through youth programs, family support, and community partnerships, we are building trusted relationships across generations. That work helps ensure Black youth are not left to navigate isolation on their own.
our values
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We center Black joy because it matters, especially in the face of isolation and systemic harm. Celebration is not separate from the work. It is part of how Black youth experience pride, connection, and the freedom to feel good in who they are.
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We believe Black youth and families should have room to define themselves on their own terms. Our work makes space for the many ways of being Black and resists pressure to flatten, explain, or perform identity for others.
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We believe a strong community is built through real relationships. We invest in connections across youth, families, elders, and community, knowing that people are more supported when they are not left to navigate life on their own.
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We practice care in ways that are real and consistent. That includes emotional and physical safety, protection from harm, and the kind of support that helps youth and families feel respected and able to exhale.
our team
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Ty Anderson-Hubler
Executive Director
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Chrisha Favors
Camp & Environmental Education Lead
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Dara Elkanah
Family & Community Connector
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Meesha Accinelli
Administrative Assistant
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Taylor Young
Social Media Manager
Social Battery LLC
our leadership
our support network
We’re grateful to the funders, community partners, and aligned organizations that help make this work possible for Black youth and their families in the Mid-Willamette Valley.
