I’m Joseph E. Nelson the founder of Unity Youth Homes (UYH), LLC. I will explain more about UYH after I give you a background synopsis of who I am. I grew up in Wichita, Kansas and after overcoming some serious challenges I graduated from high school and went on to eventually play football at Kansas State University, where I received my bachelor's degree in Sociology. After which, I went back to school to become a history teacher. After being a history teacher for several years, I went back to school to get my master’s in leadership and shortly thereafter I became an assistant principal. Prior to moving here to the Greater Phoenix Area, I was an administrator at the secondary level for several years in Wichita, Kansas. However, prior to becoming a teacher, I was a foster parent for two years, a substitute teacher, and a para for multiple years. I discovered early on that my talent and love are working with youth – the future! This is why for the past 20 years I’ve dedicated my time and energy to helping the youth achieve academically, materially, and more importantly morally.  

During my tenure as a foster parent, I decided that my next step would be to start a boys’ group home. However, at the time I did not have the means, or the support needed to materialize a dream and project such as this. Nevertheless, after 20 years or so in education, I realized that I had somewhat plateaued with my time and services as an educator and that something new was needed. At this point, I now have the support and resources to manifest this long-time dream, so I started working tirelessly to network with others to decide how I wanted to move forward with my initiative. From that point, I have been working towards opening the group home; fortunately, things have been happening serendipity – such as this opportunity I have with you. To God I am thankful!!  

 Immense respect, Joseph E. Nelson CEO, Unity Youth Homes, LLC