CPI Security is proud to have been named Carolina Youth Coalition’s 2024-2025 Donor of the Year!
Carolina Youth Coalition is a non-profit organization that nurtures and propels high-achieving, under-resourced students to and through college. In 2024, CPI Security proudly donated its former headquarters to CYC to open a second location in Steele Creek, serving students nearby.
In addition to providing the space for CYC’s new campus, several CPI Security employees also donated their time to mentor and coach CYC fellows through the program. Erin O’Brien, a Senior Director in CPI’s IT department, volunteered to mentor four sophomores as they navigate high school and their futures.
“Mentoring with CYC has been one of the greatest gifts — a chance to serve my community, pour into the next generation, and witness firsthand the strength and brilliance of these young people,” O’Brien said. “What I didn’t expect was how much they would pour into me. Their courage, determination, and dreams constantly inspire me to think differently, do better, and dig deeper for my own grit. It’s a joy to be part of an organization that leads with heart and shows up for its youth in powerful, lasting ways.“
On Friday, CYC presented CPI Security with the key to CYC UniverCity, as the non-profit’s donor of the year. In addition to the award, 77 seniors graduated from the CYC program Friday night. They were awarded several scholarships and honors as they each head to their respective colleges in the fall.
To help jumpstart their professional journeys, CPI Security is providing each senior with a $500 shopping spree at Belk to purchase professional attire, as well as a free headshot.
CEO and Founder of CPI Security, Ken Gill, holds CYC near and dear to his heart.
“At CPI, we’re all about helping our community’s next generation of leaders,“ Gill said. “We’re honored to have been recognized for our contributions to CYC, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for this class of fellows. Congratulations to all! Aaron Randolph [CYC’S Co-Founder and Executive Director] and his team do a great job helping these young people achieve their dreams.“
CPI Security would also like to thank and recognize CYC Founders Luke and Kathryn Kissam for their contributions to Charlotte’s youth.
“We couldn’t be more grateful for our partnership with CPI Security—their support in such a short time has been extraordinary. From donating space and a vehicle to launch our new campus to showing up as volunteers and mentors, their transformative contributions have positioned us to better serve our Fellows and expand our impact throughout the community,” Co-Found and Executive Director of CYC Aaron Randolph said.
If you’re a CPI Security employee interested in working with CYC, please contact HR at [email protected]. To donate, volunteer, or get involved with CYC otherwise, please visit: https://carolinayouth.org.
