OUR MISSION
A Cord of 3 Strands: NEB is dedicated to using the creative arts to support and strengthen youth, to provide personal and professional development for adults, and to promote intergenerational interactions via social, academic, and faith-centered activities.
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WHAT WE OFFER
A Cord of 3 Strands creates SAFE (Social, Academic, and Faith-centered Environments) places where youth—especially the most vulnerable—are seen, supported, and empowered intergenerationally to reach their greatest potential.” We do this by uniquely designing and implementing 4-6 week program sessions in community centers, schools, and/or faith-based organizations.
In addition, to provide increased layers of protection, guidance, and support for participating youth, A Cord of 3 Strands: NEB provides tailored support for key adults (such as parents, educators, community leaders, and faith leaders) through intergenerational workshops, coaching sessions, leadership training, and other capacity-building opportunities. These offerings, along with retreats, community outings, and enrichment
activities are available on a scale-based pricing model and offered at significantly reduced rates to ensure accessibility and broad participation.
ACof3S is deeply committed to ensuring that all interested participants can engage in our offerings, regardless of financial means. Therefore, In accordance with our mission and values, ACof3S offers voluntary contribution-based pricing guided by the following tiers:
MEET OUR TEAM
Joy-filled, life-long learners, artists, and women of faith!
Passionate about education, youth, and intergenerational relationship building.
Dr. Y’Shanda Rivera is an educator, researcher, and community advocate with over 25 years of experience teaching across K–12 and higher education. She holds a Ph.D. in Learning Sciences from Northwestern University and specializes in culturally responsive education, identity development, critical literacy, and ecological partnerships.
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A published author and frequent speaker, Dr. Rivera has contributed to national conversations on education, language, and equity through keynotes, workshops, and media appearances.
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Before co-founding ACof3S, Dr. Rivera served as Director of Strategy, Research and
Partnerships at R City Community Development Center and as an adjunct professor of writing at the University of Maryland Global Campus.
Y'Shanda Rivera, Ph.D.
President/Co-Founder
OUR POLICY
It is A Cord of 3 Strands: NEB policy that:
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​ - No participant will be turned away due to inability to pay.
- Participants/families may self-select their contribution level—no proof of income is required.
- Contributions directly support operating programs including purchasing program
materials, snacks, staffing, guest speakers, and transportation when needed.
- We encourage those who are able to give more to do so to support broader community access
and organizational sustainability.
OUR Annual Impact
To learn more about our six month impact report and review last year’s annual donor letter, please click on the documents below.
