Our Story
Positive Influence, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization founded on June 23, 2005, by community leader Andrew Blacks, with a mission to uplift youth and families within the Amsterdam Housing Development Community on Manhattan’s Upper West Side—between 61st and 65th Streets, from West End to Amsterdam Avenues. Born out of a deep commitment to academic achievement, personal growth, and community development, Positive Influence provides free programs and services to youth in grades 5 through 12—and now serves children as young as 6 and young adults up to age 26. Our organization focuses on socioeconomic issues, educational access, character development, and emotional well-being, especially for low-income and minority youth.
Andrew Blacks, Founder & President
Positive Influence, Inc.
Vision & Mission
Our Mission
We aim to:
Maximize educational opportunities
Address socioeconomic challenges
Instill wholesome values and essential life skills
Promote happiness, health, and hope among youth
Outreach & Vision
Through street-level outreach and door-to-door engagement, our team builds trust with youth in the Amsterdam Houses and Amsterdam Addition, ensuring access to education, resources, and guidance.
What started in 2003 as a small effort to help teens transition from high school to college has grown into a city-recognized force for youth empowerment. Today, Positive Influence welcomes all youth interested in reaching their full potential—on the court, in the classroom, and beyond.
We believe that by combining education, mentorship, sports, and positive role models, we can shape stronger futuresand transform communities from within
Positive Influence has been proudly supported by:
