Thurs, June 4th on F&W: Swaybo

SWAYBO was founded in 1974 by Ed Menifee Sr., President of Southeastern Management and Business Development Company. Early on Mr. Menifee saw the need for programs that provide “hands on experience” to disadvantaged youth so they could gain valuable knowledge about developing and managing businesses. Mr. Menifee’s original purpose was simple: to create an organization in his church aimed at providing disadvantaged youth with training in the business world.

 

Initially formed as an incentive to learn about the world of work, the members of SWAYBO learned to manage their organization as a business and were not permitted to solicit donations or contributions.

 

Instead, SWAYBO members secured a loan of $25 from Mt. Calvary Baptist Church. Using this capital, the members of SWAYBO financed their first fund-raising ventures and repaid the loan plus 10% interest within fifty days.

 

SWAYBO members increased the organization’s funds by investing in several projects.  The youth-owned businesses included such ventures as the Quick Stop Snack Shop and a highly profitable office and school and supply store. SWAYBO at one time operated the Metropolitan Youth Bank of Atlanta, a savings and operation for active members of the organization.

 

After 35 years, SWAYBO is still going strong, with amazing results year after year. The charter members of the organization are now parents, pursing dynamic careers in diverse business fields. The organization’s motto is: “Once SWAYBO, Always SWAYBO!” Since its inception, SWAYBO’s membership has increased to more than 900 students. The educational excursions have grown from a single tour of Florida to literally a tour of the globe – spanning more than 30 states and over 15 countries.

 

SWAYBO members now form individual businesses and manage these businesses throughout the year. SWAYBO continues to be a positive influence in the lives of young people. They learn the value of work, responsibility and self-determination. They grow to become leaders in their schoolsand communities. The 35^th anniversary celebration marks the culmination of everything the sponsors, parentandfriends of SWAYBO believe can happen when young people are given the chance to GO as far as they can reach.