We Are Here To Serve You

The work we do is for the children, for their future.

Neonta Williams
Neonta WilliamsFounder/Executive Director
Being Alabama-borne, breed, and educated (aside from the military), what I know for sure, is that education has and always will be, one of the greatest gains that I have personally experienced and it changed my life! The desire to gain knowledge is something that each of us is born with; who fosters that is a different scenario. What drives me is my unwavering passion for others to win! Winning has such a sweet aroma of victory and being triumphant!
Ashlee Taylor
Ashlee TaylorDirector of Operations
Ashlee Taylor is a licensed attorney and entrepreneur who holds a Bachelor’s in Business Management and a Masters in Public Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, as well as a Juris Doctorate from the Birmingham School of Law. Ashlee Taylor is a fervent advocate for high quality education options, and the economic advancement of the Black Community. she takes great pride in doing meaningful work.
LaShundra D. Richmond
LaShundra D. Richmond NLL Program Director
As a transformational Educational Leader, LaShundra is a highly-motivated and purposely driven Practitioner with a passionate commitment to student development and the learning experience; skilled in the design of challenging,
enriching and innovative activities that address the diverse interests and needs of students and establishing productive & efficient relationships with students, parents, and all other stakeholders.
Lakeshia Wheeler
Lakeshia WheelerMarketing and Communications Manager
Favorite Quote: Fear is the mind killer. Let it pass through you.
Lakeshia Wheeler is a freelance graphic designer and owner of Keekee360 Design a brand and marketing design firm located in Huntsville, Al that serves clients all over the world. Keekee helps entrepreneurs bring their dreams to reality. Keekee is a twenty year veteran of using print and web technologies to build relationships for business, organizations and individuals. She speaks, blogs, writes and creates.
This could be you
This could be you
James P. Thornton
James P. ThorntonCommunity Organizer
James Thornton is a dedicated education professional with extensive experience in stakeholder engagement, youth advocacy, and student development. With a background in mentoring and community outreach, James is passionate about empowering underserved students to succeed academically and in life. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Organizational Leadership, James brings expertise in leadership, team collaboration, and strategic planning to his role as the Community Engagement and Outreach Coordinator at Build Up Community School in Birmingham, AL.

James has a strong track record of building meaningful partnerships with families, educators, and community organizations, which has resulted in increased student enrollment and enhanced community involvement. An active member of various community organizations, James is committed to fostering educational excellence and driving positive change within underserved communities.