Michael Arterberry

Michael Arterberry is a motivational speaker, youth development expert, and the founder and executive director of Youth Voices Center Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on improving the lives of young people. Arterberry began his work with youth after earning a bachelor's degree in social work from Iona College. Drawing on his own experiences growing up in poverty, he has worked with thousands of teens in various settings as a social worker and counselor. As a teenager, Arterberry benefited from guidance provided by adult mentors, which influenced his decision to dedicate his professional life to helping adolescents navigate challenges.

Arterberry formed Youth Voices Center while working on the Alternative to Violence Project in Green Haven Correctional Facility. As a counselor, he observed the transformation of participants in the program and recognized the impact of experiential learning. This led to the creation of the "Power of Peace" program, which aims to promote positive youth development through leadership, teamwork, decision-making, respect, and cultural awareness. The program is offered in schools, community centers, and youth groups across New York State.

The "Power of Peace" program provides experiential workshops that encourage young people to express personal concerns, fears, and aspirations. These workshops have been implemented in multiple school districts, including New Rochelle, Port Chester, and Greenburgh, and are designed to help participants develop resilience, understand responsibilities, and acquire tools for success. Arterberry has introduced the program to communities such as White Plains, Yonkers, Mount Vernon, Peekskill, and Ossining, establishing a reputation for connecting with youth across diverse backgrounds.

Arterberry has received the USA Network's Characters Unite Award, the 100 Men of Color Award, and the Y-COP Educator of the Year Award. In addition to his nonprofit work, he has supported corporate teams, educators, students, and community leaders in building resilience and overcoming adversity.

He is the author of "Be Encouraged: 250 Days of Motivation and Encouragement" and is the subject of the book "God Was Holding My Hand," which details his childhood and medical challenges. Arterberry has also published "The Ripple Effect." Through his work, he combines personal experience with professional expertise to deliver youth empowerment programs and motivational events for audiences of all ages.