History Esteem Teens, a nonprofit organization, was founded in 2008 in Richmond, Virginia by a grassroots youth leader, Samantha Thompson. The Esteem Teens program is a spin-off of the Kisura Teen Mentoring Program, sponsored by The Saint Paul's Baptist Church. The original program has been in existence for since 2000.
At the request of her Pastor, Rev. Dr. Lance D. Watson, Samantha developed Kisura (Swahili for gorgeously beautiful young lady) Teen Mentoring program. The program spawned the creation of the brother organization aptly named, Lions of Judah. Both programs currently use the same curriculum and share the same mission and vision. Due to her upbringing, Samantha has become more passionate about helping the youth. She was reared in the housing projects in Richmond, Virginia.
Determined to make a difference, Samantha convened a meeting with community leaders. With initial financial commitments from her own bank account, Samantha founded Esteem Teens as a nonprofit IRS 501(c)3 corporation. Esteem Teens is beginning to forge strong partnerships with the local professional organizations, community, school districts, and other youth-serving organizations in the community.
Samantha serves as president and executive director of Esteem Teens. Esteem Teens currently operates a rites-of-passage program at local community center. Since its inception, Esteem Teens has served over 200 youth and is currently expanding its scope of services to include a multiple programs for youth 14-18. | 
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Who Are We Samantha Thompson, President - bio
Board Members Jackie Jackson Chris McNeil Kim McRae Artrianna Morris Kevin Ridley
Partnerships |
