Metro United Way has launched the H.O.P.E. United Fellowship, a program designed to support young Black men who are considered at risk in Louisville. The initiative focuses on prevention by connecting participants with mentorship, life skills training, career development opportunities, and wraparound support services.

Program Details

The H.O.P.E. United Fellowship targets young Black men who may be at risk of becoming victims of gun violence, poverty, or other systemic challenges. The program is a partnership between Metro United Way and the Louisville Metro Police Department. Currently, funding supports eight participants between the ages of 19 and 24, a group organizers call the ‘Great Eight.’ The fellows meet every other Friday at Metro United Way, where they participate in sessions focused on career development, mentorship, financial literacy, and other life skills.

According to the Louisville Metro Police Department’s Gun Violence Dashboard, gun violence has disproportionately impacted young Black men in Louisville. Between 2020 and 2025, Black residents accounted for roughly 77% of all shooting victims. More than half of those victims were between the ages of 18 and 35.

Goals and Expectations

Organizers hope the fellowship creates a lasting cycle of support. When participants complete the program, they’re expected to come back and help mentor future groups. The program’s impact will also be measured through research. Researchers from the University of Louisville are partnering with the fellowship to collect both qualitative and quantitative data to track outcomes and better understand what strategies are most effective.

Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.