Leadership

Earl Young

Director of Outreach & Community Engagement

Director Young leads recruitment, partnership development, and community-facing initiatives for Cornerstone Brothers. A resident of Searcy, Arkansas, Earl brings a lifetime of adaptability, discipline, and people-centered leadership to the role.

Earl's formative years were marked by a significant transition in 11th grade when his family relocated from the familiar landscapes of Arkansas to the bustling urban environment of Toledo, Ohio. This move presented a profound culture shock, serving as a crucible that forged within him an enduring sense of resilience. As the eldest of four siblings, he naturally assumed a role of responsibility, navigating the challenges of a new city and a different social dynamic while also setting an example for his younger siblings.

Following his high school years, Earl answered the call to service, enlisting in the U.S. Army. There, he specialized as a field artillery specialist, a demanding role that instilled in him invaluable lessons in discipline and focus. The rigorous demands of basic training and subsequent active duty refined his character, teaching him the importance of precision, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to mission. His commitment to his country continues to resonate through his active participation as a lifetime member of the VFW Post 2330 in Searcy, Arkansas, where he remains connected to a community of fellow veterans and continues to uphold the values of service and camaraderie.

After bouncing between jobs, he found long-term stability at Frito-Lay, retiring after 25 and a half years as a Sales Representative. His work spanned independently owned stores to major corporations, giving him a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Earl’s outreach philosophy is deeply rooted in principles of mentorship, unwavering faith, and the profound conviction that genuine growth blossoms from consistent presence and avoidance of detrimental influences. He embodies a unique blend of practical, real-world wisdom and exceptional relational depth, qualities that are indispensable to Cornerstone’s vital mission. This mission is singularly focused on the holistic empowerment of youth and the enduring construction of a lasting legacy for future generations. His approach emphasizes guiding individuals through life's complexities, fostering a sense of belonging, and instilling values that promote positive decision-making and long-term success.