About CYP
Together, we're changing lives!
The Community Youth Program is a nonprofit organization that provides year-round academic and enrichment programming to 3rd-12th grade Roanoke City Public School students facing adversity in their everyday lives. The goal of CYP is to encourage learning, promote healthy mental and physical development, and provide a network of support for students and their families.
CYP is dedicated to maintaining an environment where all people, from all backgrounds, feel welcomed and included. We are committed to fostering a space where children, families, employees, and community members feel respected and valued every time they connect with CYP. We view CYP as a supportive, educational organization that not only welcomes varied perspectives and experiences but invites and encourages them, because ultimately, we believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our ability to serve those around us.
CYP does not discriminate; we welcome. We do not exclude; we include. We do not devalue others based on their differences; we value all perspectives and all experiences. Community Youth Program is about coming together, truly together, in support of the children and families in our community who need us.
Our Story
CYP was started in August 1998 by a group of parishioners at St. John’s Episcopal Church. After a lot of research and conversations in the community, they found that there were few afterschool and summer programs in Roanoke City for middle school youth. Thus began CYP!
As the years went by, we expanded to include 3rd, 4th, & 5th graders so that we could work with the students longer and make more of a difference in their lives. Many students spend 5 years at CYP!
Beginning Fall 2025, the program was expanded again to include High School - giving long-term students the opportunity to stay connected at CYP as they prepare to graduate.
While CYP is housed in the St. John’s Episcopal Church we are our own nonprofit organization and not affiliated with any religion. CYP is a non-profit organization and there is no cost for students to attend. We fund the program through grants and fundraisers.
Our Team
Jackie Smith
Executive Director
540-309-6321 cyp@stjohnsroanoke.org
Luke Shaw
Program Coordinator (High School)
540-309-0211 luke@cyproanoke.org
Destina Bermo
Program Coordinator (3rd-8th Grade)
540-309-6321 cypactivities@stjohnsroanoke.org
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Chloe Palov
Program Assistant / Transportation
Board of Directors
2025-2026
Jenny John - President
MJ Carpenter - Vice President
Susan Churchill - Secretary
Daniel Halterman - Treasurer
Board Members
LaDawn Avis
Mary Catherine Baldridge
Julie Boxley
Eric Eversole
Kathryn Feldmann
Thomas Fellers
Laura Hale
Raf Hurt
Boyd Long
Janet Morris
Anne Marie Poore
Terri Wheaton Hairston
Ad Hoc
Andy Gerrish
The Rev. Tray Light
Dr. Melanie Prusakowski
