citadeleducationinitiative – Uplifting local communities

Citadel Education Initiative

At Citadel Education Initiative, we believe that healing and growth happen when people are supported with the right tools, compassion, and opportunities. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving youth, students, adults, and families in underserved communities through transformative education and support services.

*Donations are typically 100% tax-deductible in the US.

About Us

Citadel Education Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to uplifting local communities through mental health education, family support, and empowerment training. We serve individuals and families—especially youth and students—by providing trauma-informed, culturally responsive programs that foster healing, growth, and resilience.

Statement of Need

Citadel Education Initiative is responding to a critical need in our communities: the lack of accessible, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive services for youth, families, and individuals impacted by the carceral system, poverty, and systemic inequality. Far too often, underserved communities are left without adequate mental health support, educational guidance, or pathways to personal and economic stability.

At Citadel Education Initiative, we believe that healing and growth happen when people are supported with the right tools, compassion, and opportunities. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Lancaster, California, dedicated to serving youth, students, adults, and families
in underserved communities through transformative education and support
services.

Mission

To empower individuals, support families, and uplift communities through trauma-informed mental health education, youth and family programs, and
workforce readiness training that foster resilience, healing, andlasting change.

Meet Our Founder

NANCY CHIDEBELU

At the heart of Citadel Education Initiative is Mrs. Nancy Chidebelu—a passionate educator, entrepreneur, mother, and community advocate with a heart for people and a drive to make a difference.Nancy founded Citadel Education Initiative with a simple but powerful belief: everyone deserves a chance to grow, heal, and thrive—no matter where they’re starting from. Her journey isn’t just built on titles or credentials—it’s rooted in real-life experiences, challenges, and a deep understanding of what it means to struggle and rise again.
Over the years, Nancy has walked alongside families in crisis, justice-involved youth, and individuals burdened by trauma, poverty, and cycles of hurt. She’s seen the pain—but more importantly, she’s seen the strength. She’s met parents who refuse to give up. Teens waiting for someone to believe in them. People who don’t need judgment—they just need someone to show them the way forward.
With every program, class, and connection, Nancy brings that same empathy and hope to the forefront. Her mission isn’t just to teach—it’s to uplift, to equip, and to remind people of their worth.
Today, through Citadel Education Initiative, she continues to build a community where healing happens, growth is possible, and no one is left behind.

Who We Serve

We work with a wide range of individuals, including:

Programs

Anger Management Classes

Encouraging self-awareness, emotional control, and positive conflict resolution techniques through a court-approved program (52-week curriculum)

Family Support & Parenting Classes

Creating stable families by equipping parents with useful skills and techniques for promoting healthy child development through a 52-week curriculum that is grounded in evidence-based loving parenting

Professional & Job Readiness

Digital literacy, resume building, interview skills, and career coaching to support economic independence.

Domestic Violence Classes

Comprehensive, court-approved support and education for batterers that promotes healing and the development of wholesome relationships (52-week program)

Housing Support Services/Assistance

Lovely residences that offer solace, security, and dignity to help people start over for victims of domestic abuse, the homeless, and those leaving prison.

Referral & Linkage Services

Citadel Education Initiative connects individuals and families to community resources for needs beyond our services, such as mental health, housing, food, and legal aid. Our staff supports every step, ensuring no one is overlooked and improving outcomes.

Providing students with academic help and essential life skills, including as time management, goal-setting, financial literacy, social skills, and more, in order to unlock their potential.

At Citadel Education Initiative, our programs are completely free for individuals and families who qualify. If you don’t meet the eligibility criteria, we still encourage you to reach out. We’re committed to making our services accessible and will gladly work with you to explore alternative solutions. You may be eligible for support through our partner organization, Citadel Education Solutions, which offers affordable, high-quality programs tailored to your needs.

Citadel Education Initiative provides court-approved educational programs designed to support individuals in need of personal growth and behavioral change. Our offerings include:

Services

Anger Management Classes

Help individuals understand and manage their anger in constructive ways.

Domestic Violence Classes

Domestic Violence Classes for Batterers. Specialized programs for individuals who need to address abusive behaviors and learn healthier interpersonal dynamics.

Parent Education Classes

Support for parents in developing effective communication, discipline, and parenting ski

Program Pacific Time.
Classes are held virtually Monday-Friday
From 9AM -5PM. Weekends and Evening Classes Available.

Testimonials

What People Say

Citadel's parent education classes helped me understand my child's behavior and improve our relationship. I'm grateful for the support!

MariaParent

The job readiness training gave me the confidence to apply for jobs and succeed in my career. Thank you, Citadel

DavidDavid, program graduate

After getting out, I knew I needed to work on myself, but I didn’t know where to start. Citadel referred me to a mental health provider who helped me face things I’d been carrying for years. That support helped me stay focused and begin healing.

JasmineStudent

Citadel's youth empowerment program taught me how to resolve conflicts and build healthy relationships. I'm proud of the progress I've made!

TylerYouth participant

As a justice-involved individual, I was hesitant to seek help. Citadel's trauma-informed approach made me feel safe and supported. I'm grateful for their guidance

JamesProgram Participant

Support Healing, Empowerment, and Growth

At Citadel Education Initiative, we believe that every individual and family deserves access to transformative education and support services. Your donation will help us continue to provide:

Phone

(661) 571-0224

EMAIL

info@citadeleducationinitiative.org

About Us

Citadel Education Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to uplifting local communities through mental health education, family support, and empowerment training.