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Our Mission

Our Mission

LAWCF is dedicated to empowering youth by providing a comprehensive set of resources to support their personal and professional growth. The organization focuses on lifelong learning, offering a variety of services such as mentoring, financial and home-buying literacy, and job skills development. These efforts aim to positively impact the educational and career prospects of young people.

The specific services mentioned include:

  • Mentoring: Volunteer mentor training programs to guide and support young individuals.
  • Academic Support: High school tutoring services available in different formats (in-class, virtual, or pull-out), providing students with academic assistance.
  • Cultural and Artistic Enrichment: Field trips to educational and historical sites like the Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice, as well as community arts activities led by local artists such as Toby Richards.
  • Social Enrichment Activities: Opportunities for students and families to engage in outdoor experiences (e.g., camping at Oak Mountain State Park), job shadowing, and participating in community events like the Juneteenth Freedom Celebration and community service initiatives.

This approach not only strengthens academic achievement but also fosters social awareness, cultural understanding, and community involvement. LAWCF appears to be a key player in nurturing the potential of youth in an all-encompassing way, ensuring they are equipped with the tools for success in all areas of life.

Organization Mission Statement

The Lifting As We Climb Foundation (LAWCF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting and empowering citizens, particularly in underserved communities in Alabama. The foundation’s mission revolves around fostering academic excellence, community service, and raising awareness about physical and mental health. Through various programs, LAWCF provides the support and resources necessary to enhance the educational, personal, and professional lives of its participants.

Black Rhinos Mentoring Program

One of LAWCF’s key initiatives is The Black Rhinos of Alabama, a male mentoring program aimed at helping young men in Alabama grow into leaders, contributing to their communities and society at large. The program seeks to provide these young individuals with mentorship, education, and access to opportunities that equip them for success in their academic and personal endeavors.

The program is named after the Black Rhino to symbolize strength, resilience, and survival. Just as the Black Rhino species has faced the threat of extinction due to destructive human actions, Black males in society are often subjected to negative stereotypes and adversity. By empowering mentees and helping them realize their potential, the program aims to counteract these destructive forces and inspire young men to thrive and contribute positively to their communities.

Core Values

LAWCF’s wide array of services includes mentoring, financial literacy, job skills development, high school tutoring, and community enrichment activities such as field trips, arts programs, and social events. The foundation also partners with local juvenile justice systems to provide mentorship and support to youth in detention centers, offering character-building sessions and socio-emotional guidance.

Through its volunteer-driven approach, LAWCF continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people in Alabama, fostering an environment where they can grow into well-rounded, capable individuals ready to face the challenges of the world.

Why Do We Refer To Our Mentees As Black Rhinos?

We call this program The Black Rhinos of Alabama because the Black Rhino has been exterminated over recent years through hunters killing them for selfish reasons. It is thought that as recently as 1970 there were as many as 65,000 Black rhinos in the wild. The estimated population today in 2020 is less than 5,000. The species is at risk of becoming extinct through the destructive actions of others. The Black Male is facing a similar situation because of the destructive and self-hating actions of our society. By having a positive outlook about ourselves and our futures, we can move beyond doing things that we know won’t help us succeed.

The Lifting As We Climb Foundation (LAWCF) is dedicated to making a profound and positive difference in the community. This commitment extends beyond its own initiatives to supporting various charitable organizations that focus on critical health, social, and community issues. Through both financial contributions and service efforts, LAWCF actively partners with a number of important causes, including:

American Heart Association (AHA)
The AHA works to combat heart disease and stroke through research, education, and advocacy. LAWCF’s contributions help further these efforts, supporting improved cardiovascular health for individuals and communities.

American Diabetes Association (ADA)
The ADA is focused on preventing and curing diabetes while improving the lives of those affected by the disease. LAWCF helps raise awareness and provides vital resources for diabetes prevention and management.

Children’s Village
Children’s Village offers care and support to vulnerable children, emphasizing their well-being, education, and development. LAWCF’s support strengthens this mission, ensuring that children receive the care and opportunities they deserve.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (Alabama Chapter)
The foundation is dedicated to saving lives and reducing suicide rates through research, education, and support programs. LAWCF contributes to the efforts of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, helping provide resources and raise awareness.

The Salvation Army (Alabaster Corps.)
The Salvation Army helps individuals and families facing hardship, providing shelter, food, and other critical services. LAWCF’s support aids in the foundation’s mission to serve and uplift those in need.

Shelby Emergency Assistance
This organization assists families in Shelby County facing emergencies by providing food, financial aid, and other resources. LAWCF supports Shelby Emergency Assistance to help families overcome short-term challenges.

The Sickle Cell Foundation, Inc.
The Sickle Cell Foundation works to improve the lives of individuals affected by sickle cell disease through education, research, and advocacy. LAWCF partners with this foundation to help increase awareness and improve treatment options for those living with sickle cell.

Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity works to build affordable homes for families in need. LAWCF’s collaboration with this organization helps provide families with safe, stable, and affordable housing.

Toys for Tots
Toys for Tots distributes toys to children in need during the holiday season, ensuring that every child can experience the joy of receiving gifts. LAWCF’s participation supports this initiative, bringing joy and hope to underserved children.

Through these partnerships, LAWCF demonstrates its commitment to fostering community well-being and addressing a wide range of social, health, and economic issues. The foundation’s support of these organizations amplifies its impact, helping to create positive change in the lives of individuals and families across Alabama.

2023-2025 Board Of Directors

A Close Up Of A Man Wearing Glasses And Smiling At The Camera

Bobby D. Clayton, Jr.

President

Janitorial Services & Tailored Consulting

With experience in business services and consulting, Bobby Clayton brings a wealth of leadership expertise to the board.

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Dr. Bryant C. Cline

Director of Health Programs

Alabama Community College System

A seasoned health educator, Dr. Cline plays an essential role in shaping the foundation’s health programs and initiatives.

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Joseph Hampton

President

Spire Alabama and Mississippi Utilities

Joseph Hampton’s leadership in the utilities sector allows for strategic insights into community service and resource management.

Vanable Moody II wearing a suit and tie

Bishop Vanable Moody, II

Founder & Sr. Pastor

The Worship Center Christian Church

A spiritual leader with a deep commitment to community, Bishop Moody is instrumental in guiding the foundation’s values and mission.

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Rodney Moon

Sr. Program Manager

Amazon

With his extensive experience at Amazon, Rodney Moon provides valuable insights into program management and technology-based solutions.

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Dr. Anthony Overton

Professor and Chair Department

Biological and Environmental Sciences at Samford University

Dr. Overton contributes his academic and scientific knowledge to the board, supporting the foundation’s educational initiatives.

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Jeremy Spratling

Principal

Corporate Facilities Mgmt, Inc.

Jeremy Spratling offers expertise in facilities management, contributing to operational and logistical decisions for the foundation.

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Kamau Witherspoon

Chief Executive Officer

Shipt

As CEO of Shipt, Kamau Witherspoon brings leadership in innovation and business strategy to the board.

Together, this esteemed group of professionals represents a broad spectrum of industries and expertise, ensuring that the Lifting As We Climb Foundation continues to positively impact communities and provide resources for growth and success.

Executive Leadership

The Executive Leadership team at the Lifting As We Climb Foundation (LAWCF) plays a critical role in executing the foundation’s mission and ensuring smooth operations across various functions. Below are the key members of the team:

Chief Chris Anderson

President

As the President, Chief Anderson provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the foundation’s initiatives and overall mission.

Ralph Williams, Jr.

Executive Vide President

In his role, Ralph Williams, Jr. helps manage the foundation’s high-level activities and oversees various key projects.

Brian Tarrance

Secretary

Brian Tarrance ensures that the foundation’s operations are well-documented and adheres to organizational governance standards.

Rocquiell Taylor

Director of Mentoring

Mr. Taylor plays a crucial role in supporting the administrative functions of the foundation by coordinating the mentoring services.

Andre Swain

Director of Operations

Andre Swain oversees the day-to-day operations of the foundation, ensuring that programs run efficiently and meet their goals.

Christopher Washington

Director of Logistics

Christopher Washington manages the logistical aspects of the foundation’s events and programs, ensuring resources are effectively coordinated.

Ronnie Davis

Director of Marketing

Ronnie Davis leads marketing and outreach efforts, promoting the foundation’s programs and activities to the public and stakeholders.

Antonio Goodman

Treasurer/Fiscal Secretary

As Treasurer, Antonio Goodman is responsible for overseeing the foundation’s financial health, budgeting, and fiscal reporting.

Brandon Pettagrue

Directors of Special Grants & Funding

Brandon Pettagrue plays a vital role in securing grants and funding for the foundation, ensuring that resources are available for continued operations

Eric Wright

Directors of Special Grants & Funding

Alongside Brandon Pettagrue, Eric Wright supports the identification and acquisition of grants and funding opportunities to support the foundation’s goals.

Alvin Jackson

Director of Facilities

Alvin Jackson is responsible for managing the physical spaces and facilities where the foundation’s programs are held.

This diverse and dedicated Executive Leadership team ensures that LAWCF’s programs and services are delivered effectively, meeting the organization’s mission of empowering underserved communities.

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