Entrepreneurs Academy is a life-changing program that positively impacts the entire community by exposing the youth to more options. Members get the opportunity to meet local successful entrepreneurs with dynamic field trips to local companies and learn how to develop and run a real enterprise in a fun, project-based approach. The academy transforms local middle and high school students into real, confident entrepreneurs and professionals. Through the year-long program, students in grades 6-12 generate business ideas, conduct market research, write business plans, pitch to a panel of investors, and launch their very own companies. We kicked off our marketing campaign by creating youth shirts with our motto Pants Up Guns Down and promoting and them for sale. Half of the sale proceeds go to the members of the organization giving them a positive way to make some money and raise awareness against gun violence.