The Urban Youth League was founded by NFL All-Pro Running Back Ricky Watters. Ricky is just as passionate when it comes to mentoring and fostering at-risk youth as he is about playing football. Ricky has always believed that by sharing his personal story and many challenges he faced as a youth and young adult, he will encourage children and teens to never give up until they reach their goals.

The mission of the UYL is to support at-risk and foster youth in becoming leaders in their communities. UYL strives to build self-confidence through one-on-one mentoring, life skills training, exposure to the arts, music and sports and different cultures.

In creating the UYL, Ricky pondered over how to most effectively use his talents to meet the needs of these children. During speaking tours in the public school system, he would always begin by asking the question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" The answer was always the same - rap stars or professional athletes - two careers that less than 1% of the population will ever acheive. He knew from that moment on that his lifelong passion for music along with the wide respect he has gained in the NFL would be the catalyst behind his charitable foundation. Ricky has never undervalued the importance of giving back. He is honored to serve as a role model in the community and has dedicated himself to improving the lives of children in the best way he knows how.

To learn more about the teens who are currently being mentored through UYL, please click here