DB4E uses an innovative model to provide youth with the opportunity to attain financial ownership in real estate located in distressed communities in St Louis. We encourage our students to realize their power within their communities by giving them ownership in our community development projects. Ownership is earned by participating in an 8-week summer academy and mentorship program, which involves rehabbing properties, and contributing to community development efforts (completing home-repair projects for elderly and/or low-income residents). Youth are paid 12-15 per hour over the 8 weeks. Youth participants are required to journal regularly about their experiences, how the program has benefited them, and how they plan to continue supporting underserved communities. Their writings are compiled, edited, and published in a book. Funds earned through the sale of renovated properties and book sales are deposited in their savings accounts and re-invested into DB4E programming.