In correctional facilities
Young people are rediscovering themselves, returning to school, and starting successful careers after release.
Our Impact
The Numbers Tell Part of the Story.
The lives behind them tell the rest — in classrooms, correctional facilities, and communities.
- Kids mentored since 2018
- 300+
- Kids mentored since 2018
- Award-winning published authors
- 15+
- Award-winning published authors
- Earned at a single book signing
- $10K+
- Earned at a single book signing
- Copies bought by schools
- 200+
- Copies bought by schools
In schools
Mentees are becoming well-behaved young leaders — many of them award-winning published authors whose books have been adopted by schools.
In the community
Parents and community leaders rise to support and encourage young authors during their book signing events. Each published author donates a copy of their book to community libraries.
Our Journey
Milestones along the way
2018
WLIF is founded
The Lightning the Mind Program begins, bringing kids and families together for leadership training.
2019
A growing family
New mentees join in-person sessions held every first Saturday of the month.
2021
Leadership goes online
Monthly summits move to Zoom, reaching mentees wherever they are.
2023
Young authors emerge
Mentees publish books on friendship, family, sports, and courage — several before age 13.
2025
Book launches & awards
Community book launches and an Awards Ceremony celebrate a new generation of authors and leaders.
Today
Certified safety training
WLIF becomes a licensed American Red Cross training provider for CPR & First Aid.
Our Young Authors
The lives behind the numbers
15+ award-winning published authors. Books on Amazon, Walmart, and Barnes & Noble.
The Library Lesson
The Power of Determination
Founder, CodeKids Connect
Testimonies
In their own words
“The impact the Foundation has had on the growth of my children is undeniable. I wholeheartedly recommend WLIF to every parent who wants their child to develop leadership values and a heart with passion and vision.”
“Charles Awodu genuinely enjoys guiding children to discover the potential within themselves. Through his mentorship, my daughter's book was not only written but published — a remarkable achievement for a young author.”
From Inmate to Mentor
“I learned how to take responsibility for my choices and rebuild my life. Today, I'm back in school and exploring a career path I never thought was possible. WLIF showed me that my story still matters.”
Setbacks to Success
“The leadership and financial literacy lessons I learned at WLIF prepared me for life after release. Now I am productively engaged and happy to be with my family.”
Get Involved
Every leader starts with someone who believes.
You can help us create more opportunities, more stories, and a stronger tomorrow for young people.
