THE PROBLEM

The problem of generational poverty is complex. Learn more to better understand our mission and goals.

There is a socioeconomic epidemic of generational poverty in America.

Socio-economic issues are factors that have a negative influence on an individual’s economic activity. This includes, but is not limited to poverty, lack of education, cultural and religious discrimination, overpopulation, unemployment, and corruption.

Socioeconomic status is an individual's or group's position within a hierarchical social structure. It is also dependent on a combination of variables, including, occupation, education, income, wealth, and place of residence. In America, researchers have found the linkages between education and incarceration between poor educational outcomes and incarceration. Among state prison inmates, available data suggests that two-thirds have not completed high school (BJS 2009).
Young black males between the ages of 20 and 24 who do not have a high school diploma (or an equivalent credential) have a higher chance of being incarcerated than of being employed.
Neal and Rick 2014
A variety of studies have suggested that investing more in education, particularly targeted toward marginalized communities, could achieve crime reduction without the heavy social costs that high incarceration rates impose on individuals, families, and communities (Belfield et al. 2006; Reynolds et al. 2001; Heckman et al. 2010). NBLA believes that this cycle of impoverished crime-ridden communities is perpetuated due to a lack of resources and support. Availability of a quality education, exposure to economic opportunities, support through mentorship, and hands-on trial experiences are a few of the resources that are lacking. NBLA offers, an innovative approach to address crime-ridden areas that are a direct result of poverty in the communities. 
Researchers have estimated that a 10 percent increase in high school graduation rates may result in 9 percent decline in criminal arrest rates.
Lochner and Moretti 2004
 Through our programming, we shine the light on our young leader’s ability to use their power to break the chains of generational poverty. We shift the perspectives of society on the face of entrepreneurship and begin to introduce students to a viable option to change their lives. This will require the students to go through some traditional financial and entrepreneurial curriculum in a completely active learning environment. The curriculum addresses the “Why Entrepreneurship?” question through the critical examination of the intersections. The intersections focus on, personal spending power, where money goes, and understanding the cycle of denigration for some and power and wealth for others.

Following these learning cycles, We offer a way for marginalized youth to gain a hands-on experience in the world of entrepreneurship. One of our businesses includes fully operating a mobile snow cone bus. Becoming entrepreneurs will not only help eliminate this current system, but will also help eliminate crime in their communities, that is caused by a lack of financial education, resources, and gainful employment. We cater to the needs of each Leader that attends the academy and build on their inherent strengths.

Entrepreneurship is not successfully accomplished by one program or agency alone. NBLA continuously seeks to foster new partnerships and pursue community collaborations with businesses and other non-profit organizations to ensure that our Leaders have a well rounded educational experience and fully understand the pros and cons of entrepreneurship. Successful business owners and global leaders will produce the necessary break in the cycle of crime and poverty now present in socioeconomically deprived communities.

Education is Our Passport To The Future, For Tomorrow Belongs To The People Who Prepare For It Today.

- Malcom X