Success Stories

CAN Story – Mommaste

<   “The Woodson Center Rising Leader grant played a pivotal role in establishing the foundation for our organization, Mommaste, setting us on a path to sustainability by focusing on developing our infrastructure.” ~ Dr. LeTea Perry, co-founder of Mommaste Dr....

CAN Story – Dr. Keli Christopher

Thanks to the mini-grant, Dr. Christopher was able to expand her Kids Count Program, which inspires children from underrepresented backgrounds to excel in STEM, with a special focus on mathematics through fun activities and games. The program has now grown from...

CAN Story – Charlene Turner Johnson

Since 2006, Rev. Turner Johnson has been determined to transform Highland Park – one of the poorest, most drug-afflicted cities in Michigan – into a safe and prosperous community. In 1986, Rev. Turner Johnson partnered with a holistic community development corporation...

CAN Story – DC Strings

As many art programs in DC public schools are experiencing budget cuts, DC Strings is approved as a DC Public Schools Program Provider to administer music education programs both in and out of the school year, such as summer afterschool programs and community...

CAN Story: Way to Live

Kandice started planning a youth enrichment program in an effort to reduce youth violence, while also studying natural and nutritious approaches to diet. Kandice is determined to give youth access to a better future by giving them the tools and road map to make...

CAN Story: FurnishHopeDC

Niki allows families to choose their own furniture, and her organization is among the few places providing delivery services. “Our process is not just about giving furniture,” she says, “it's about restoring dignity and allowing families to create their own homes....

CAN Story: Loving Others On Purpose

Loving Others On Purpose (LOOP) sows seeds of healing and hope, restoring the lives of people struggling with addiction. This Elyria, Ohio nonprofit is a family operation, led by Brian Wade and his son, Brian Jr. The elder Brian stepped into this full-time calling...

CAN Story – Paul – Woodson Center Supporter

“I see the Woodson Center as a rock. It’s a home that I know you are fostering and creating for the grassroots leaders – ‘Josephs.’”  Paul, Woodson Center Supporter Paul, who has been a supporter of the Woodson Center since 2021, views the grassroots leaders within...

CAN Story – Brenda Muhammad – FORCE

Woodson Center Mini-Grant helps Brenda Muhammad save lives.  We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on Brenda Muhammad, a one-year mini-grant recipient and Executive Director of Focusing Our Resources for Community Enlightenment (FORCE), a volunteer-driven nonprofit...