Empowering Communities in Northern Uganda

Rehabilitating post-war communities through youth empowerment and local leadership.

Youth Development Organisation Uganda (YDO) is a community-based organization in Omoro District, Northern Uganda, led by local community members and committed to the long-term rehabilitation and empowerment of war-affected communities.

YDO designs and implements programs in education, psycho-social support, vocational training, life-skills development, and child welfare advocacy — strengthening families, protecting children, and building community resilience from within.

Education
Scholarships & Support
Training
Vocational & Life Skills
Advocacy
Rights & Welfare

Our Mission

YDO envisions a future where post-conflict communities are fully rehabilitated, children are protected from armed conflict, and families have access to the education, skills, and support needed to thrive.

Our work is built on the conviction that lasting transformation emerges from within communities themselves — when local leaders, families, and youth are equipped to shape their own future. Every program we implement reflects local priorities, strengthens existing community assets, and builds systems that endure beyond external support.

Learn About Our Story
1

Community-Centered

All programs are designed with and led by local communities.

2

Holistic Support

Education, training, and psycho-social services work together.

3

Durable Change

Building skills and systems that sustain beyond our involvement.

Our Programs

YDO implements comprehensive programs that address the interconnected needs of post-conflict communities.

Education Support

Scholarships, school supplies, and academic support for vulnerable children from early childhood through secondary education.

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Vocational Training

Practical skills training in sewing, construction, and other marketable trades that lead to livelihood opportunities.

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Psycho-Social Support

Counseling, life skills development, and trauma-informed care to support healing and personal growth.

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Child Welfare Advocacy

Protecting children's rights, supporting families, and creating safe environments for vulnerable youth.

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Economic Empowerment

Supporting women and youth in building sustainable livelihoods and economic independence.

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Community Mobilization

Engaging communities in planning, implementation, and ownership of development initiatives.

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Working in Partnership

YDO works in close partnership with Be A Number, International, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that supports the development of sustainable community systems in Northern Uganda.

In this partnership, YDO remains the locally-led implementing organization, guiding priorities, execution, and community engagement. Be A Number provides strategic support, infrastructure investment, and long-term systems development alongside YDO's leadership.

This collaborative model ensures that programs are community-driven, locally owned, institutionally strengthened, and sustainable over the long term.

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Our Combined Impact

Through this partnership, community systems in Northern Uganda are being strengthened across multiple dimensions:

  • Education infrastructure and scholarship support expanding access to learning
  • Vocational training aligned with local job creation and economic opportunity
  • Health initiatives integrated with education and family support
  • Community leadership structures reinforced to ensure long-term sustainability

All impact is locally implemented and community-owned, with YDO serving as the primary on-the-ground organization driving outcomes.

Our Impact

YDO's programs contribute to measurable outcomes in education, skills development, and community well-being.

Education

Scholarships & Support

Providing educational opportunities and advocacy for vulnerable children, ensuring access to quality education from early childhood through secondary levels.

Training

Vocational & Life Skills

Equipping youth and adults with practical skills and psycho-social support, creating pathways to employment and self-sufficiency.

Advocacy

Rights & Welfare

Promoting children's rights, supporting vulnerable families, and mobilizing communities for sustainable development.

Join Us in Empowering Communities

Whether you're interested in partnering, volunteering, or learning more about our work, we'd love to hear from you.

Get in Touch