our mission
At KinCultivate, we are dedicated to nurturing the growth and identity development of youth of African descent.
By cultivating a strong sense of kinship and belonging, we empower them to confidently embrace and affirm their racial identity, equipping them with the resilience and agency needed to thrive.
our vision
At KinCultivate, we envision a future where Black youth in Oregon find strength and guidance in the bonds they cultivate within a supportive kinship network. From play cousins and elders to mentors and the broader community, through these nurturing relationships and a deep sense of belonging, our vision is to empower these young individuals with the resilience, agency, and pride necessary to navigate and thrive in their communities and beyond.
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 problem
There is a noticeable lack of resources in the Willamette Valley, Oregon, that support the holistic development of youth of African descent.
The solution
KinCultivate is part of the solution by actively creating spaces where Black youth can connect, celebrate their cultural identities, and thrive. Through mentorship programs, community events, and educational initiatives, we cultivate a diverse kinship network that includes play cousins, elders, mentors, and the broader community. This network empowers young individuals with the resilience, agency, and pride necessary to navigate and thrive in their communities and beyond.
our values
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
Ty Anderson-Hubler
Executive Director
-
Chrisha Favors
Camp & Environmental Education Lead
-
Dara Elkanah
Family & Community Connector
-
Meesha Accinelli
Administrative Assistant
-
Taylor Young
Social Media Manager
Social Battery LLC
guidance & stewardship
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.
