What does Say Yes Buffalo do?

Say Yes Buffalo is a collective impact partnership based in Buffalo, New York, established in 2011. With around 200 employees, the organization focuses on removing barriers to educational attainment, workforce participation, and economic mobility for students in Buffalo public and charter schools. It emphasizes racial equity and inclusion, providing comprehensive support from early childhood through career. The organization began with a successful scholarship fundraising campaign and has since developed a range of services. These include early childhood programs, school-based family support, summer camps, and postsecondary career assistance such as tuition scholarships, mentoring, and internships. Say Yes Buffalo operates community schools in partnership with Buffalo Public Schools and tracks its impact through a public dashboard. Funding comes from a mix of public sources and private philanthropy, totaling nearly $40 million in an endowment campaign. The mission is to ensure that all students can achieve their full potential and contribute to a thriving local economy.