Prime factors are the smallest things numbers are built from.
This started with two friends from Irvington and Newark going back all the way to first grade. We studied, hung out, and played basketball on the same teams.
After splitting up around high school, we reunited years later to start a software development agency. One of us began informally tutoring math outside during the pandemic. Eventually we started Generation Code to teach coding in our community and incorporated as a 501(c)3.
We eventually decided to rely on young people who were former students to help with teaching. We had once been in those students' shoes and knew they could meet the moment. Our trust in them has paid off in so many ways. Five years in, we run five programs across Greater Newark. We are products of our environment, as well as factors in it.
There are more stories to share and people to thank than we can count, but we'll always remember the simple truth of where we come from and why we are here. That's what keeps us going.
A loop, not a pipeline
- 01
Participants join
Community members, especially young people, join free programs after school, on weekends, or during the summer.
- 02
Some come back to teach
They teach in opportunities like Saturday School or other programs, learning curriculum design, group facilitation, and getting deeper into a subject.
- 03
We put them on payroll
Youth teachers are paid for every session. Over $90,000 in wages has gone to them since 2022.
- 04
The loop widens
As more students join, more return as teachers. Investing in each cohort makes the next one easier to staff.
Two directors, one org
After attending the University of South Carolina and earning his MBA, Emmanuel returned to Newark to work at a startup. He now builds an organization and works with young people, teaching and empowering the next generation.
Elliot studied at Harvard, worked as a business consultant, and served as chief of staff at a high school. He joined the founding team of a Bay Area tech company. He is now happy to channel his love for learning into community-based education efforts.
Where we've been
Partnering with Rutgers and Apple's Community Education Initiative
Hosted by Zoo Crew Basketball Summer League
Partnering with the Cornwall Center for Metropolitan Studies
Partnering with Essex County 4-H Youth Development Program
After school pilot and multi-year research project begins
Eight teachers across two campuses
At two elementary schools, in partnership with Arts Ed Newark
Open books, on purpose
We're a 501(c)3 run day-to-day by our two co-directors. Full financials, outcomes and our Form 990 are on the Impact page. No form required.
See full financials and outcomes →
Candid Seal of Transparency · 501(c)378 cents of every dollar reaches a program
FY2025 figures. We will be putting more resources into funding :)