Fruit Belt, United is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, empowerment, and enrichment of the historic African-American neighborhood known as the Fruit Belt in Buffalo, New York. Nestled within the city’s vibrant tapestry, the Fruit Belt holds a rich history that dates back generations, serving as a testament to resilience, community strength, and cultural heritage.

• What We Do

  Pilgrim Fest – 3-Day community-based movement and festival featuring nationally and locally recognized recording artists, vendors, and health screenings.

  KBS Entertainment  –   Artist development, encouraging Artist independency     youth training in music and production and management.

  Mental Health Awareness –  Empower Buffalo is a comprehensive mental health program to address the unique needs of the underserved community in and around the Fruit Belt community. The program aims to provide screenings and support programs to foster resilience and referrals to better support mental health wellness needs.

  Gun Violence Prevention – Buffalo Peace initiative works to reduce gun violence and community safety by addressing the root cause of violence by providing support to our program participants.

  Empower Youth Activities – Basketball League

                                              Age Groups: 7 – 16

                                              Cheerleading

                                              Age Groups: 5 – 16

                                              Dance

                                              Age Groups: 5 – 16

  Health Screenings: EmpowerHealth provides health screenings to address the needs of the Fruit Belt and greater Buffalo community through blood pressure checks, obesity, prostate health, and mental wellness screenings and more.

Our Mission

Our mission is rooted in the profound legacy of the Fruit Belt, a community that has weathered challenges and triumphs, shaping its unique identity. Fruit Belt United strives to honor this heritage by advancing creative programs that uplift and serve the diverse needs of its residents.

At the heart of our commitment is the cultivation of community structure for youth, fostering an environment where young minds can flourish. Through mentorship, educational initiatives, and recreational activities, we aim to empower the next generation, providing them with the tools and guidance needed to navigate the path to success.

Recognizing the intricate web of social determinants of health and the pressing issue of food insecurity, Fruit Belt, United is dedicated to implementing programs that address these challenges head-on. By collaborating with local partners and leveraging community resources, we seek to create sustainable solutions that promote well-being, nourishment, and overall quality of life.

Moreover, our organization is dedicated to bridging the gap in health disparities within the Fruit Belt community. Through targeted health initiatives, access to healthcare resources, and community-driven advocacy, we aspire to build a foundation for lasting health equity.

As part of our commitment to education, Fruit Belt, United endeavors to close gaps in access to higher education through scholarship programs. We believe that education is a powerful catalyst for positive change, and by providing financial support and guidance, we aim to open doors for ambitious individuals to pursue their academic dreams.

Fruit Belt, United envisions a future where the Fruit Belt community thrives holistically – culturally, socially, and academically. Together, we embark on a journey to celebrate the past, address the present challenges, and create a legacy that will resonate for generations to come.

Youth Sports