Our Story
Our Story
Otero Youth Empowerment Project (OYEP) was founded in Alamogordo, New Mexico, with a deeply personal purpose: to make sure young people know they are seen, heard, valued, and supported. What began as one family's experience advocating for a child facing bullying grew into a larger commitment to stand beside youth and families throughout our community.
That experience became the foundation for OYEP—a community-driven nonprofit committed to creating safer environments, stronger connections, and meaningful opportunities for young people. Through education, advocacy, community outreach, and youth-focused programs, OYEP works to help young people build confidence, develop their voices, and recognize their potential.
Every young person deserves to feel safe, supported, and empowered to become who they are meant to be. OYEP exists to help bridge gaps between youth, families, schools, and the community by providing education, resources, advocacy, and opportunities that encourage confidence, kindness, leadership, and connection.
We believe every young person has value, potential, and a voice that deserves to be heard. We believe lasting change happens when youth are surrounded by people who listen, encourage, educate, and stand beside them. By working together as families, schools, businesses, organizations, and community members, we can create an environment where young people feel supported and empowered to thrive.
OYEP is committed to creating meaningful opportunities that strengthen and empower young people. We will continue listening to the needs of youth and families, building strong community partnerships, and developing programs that promote safety, confidence, leadership, and positive connections. As OYEP grows, our focus will remain where it began—with the young people we serve and the belief that every youth deserves the opportunity to thrive.
Whether you volunteer, become a sponsor, make a donation, partner with OYEP, or simply help spread the word, your involvement can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people in our community. Together, we can help build a future where every young person feels supported, empowered, and ready to thrive.