Many people ask what does the name POP's Passion mean and the response is that it holds two meanings. One meaning for POPs is an acronym for our Mantra: Purpose Over Profits, reminding us constantly of our mission. Another meaning is to honor the Founder's "Pops", the two men who left examples of servant leadership while providing for their community.
Families living in poverty stricken fragile communities are in survival mode. 1 in 4 youth face hunger, while most live in a food desert. Students are graduating from public school underprepared for college or the workforce. The high unemployment rates indicate scarce opportunities for upward mobility.
Working with the families living in the 28208 zip code (38,093 households; 13,221 children) in Charlotte, North Carolina, POP’s Passion will collaborate with community leaders to establish a model of community development excellence that can be replicated in other fragile communities. The 28208 zip code is one of the most fragile areas in Charlotte, North Carolina. The key strategy is strengthening communities, one family at a time.
Consistent with its vision, ”Upward Mobility For All,” POP’s Passion provides life changing resources and services to families living in fragile communities. The services and resources include educational support services, health and wellness support, career development and job readiness training, and transportation for basic life needs. A faith based approach to upward mobility provides the hope and character necessary for lasting family sustainability and vibrant community development.
In 2013, a Harvard University / UC Berkeley study uncovered our community, Charlotte Mecklenburg was ranked 50th out of 50th in economic mobility among the largest U.S. cities.
In 2017 in a letter to the city and county, The Charlotte Mecklenburg Opportunity Task Force stated "we as city and county stood at a crossroad. A crossroad on whether to stay distant or to join hands to build a better future for generations to come." The Task Force said "We need only the courage to confront what may hurt, embrace that which will help, and sustain collective action in the spirit of truth, trust, and compromise."
The problem outlined by the Task Force was the inheritance of intergenerational poverty and its impact on the life trajectory of far too many of our children and youth.
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Opportunity Task Force outlined multiple strategies to address the problem faced by the city and county in order to provide a universal vision that allows all groups to advance. The problem to address is the impact of the inheritance of intergenerational poverty and its impact on the trajectory of children and youth.
Key Determinants and Factors
Factor 1 : The Impact of Segregation
Determinant 1: Early Care and Education
Determinant 2 : College and Career Readiness
Determinant 3: Family and Child Stability
Factor 2: Social Capital
As members of the community, it is important for POP's Passion to contribute to the full development of the city and county that is Charlotte Mecklenburg. We believe the Task Force has provided great recommendations and tactics, as outlined in the report. Consistent with POP's Vision "Upward Mobility for All," our POP's Projects are designed to improve our city and support the Task Force's plan of action.
Instilled in her as a child by strong faith filled men, Dr. Williams learned that life was supposed to be purposeful in order to be rewarding.
As a former Title 1 principal, Dr. Williams has coordinated partnerships to provide proven programs that help children and families succeed.
As a grandmother, aunt, mother and wife, Dr. Williams understands the challenges families face today and knows more help is needed for all.
Daniel joins the team as our Chairman. Daniel has developed successful teams that have been able to deliver consistent results in corporate America. Since childhood he has participated in numerous community activities. Daniel's skill set will ensure this organization leaves a lasting contribution within the communities we serve.
Starting his first business at the age of 22, Spencer Holmes will join the team as our Secretary. Spencer has a passion for business development and preparing others for their future. Spencer has displayed a relentless fight for excellence in how he operates in the communities he serves and looks to continue build a better tomorrow for all. Spencer is excited to serve.
Larry who has a wealth of knowledge with non profit organizations will serve as our Treasurer. Larry's years of experience will increase our effectiveness to those whom we serve. As a former educator, Larry looks to continue his already demonstrated commitment to his community.
Nate brings tons of excitement to our team as our Finance Chair. As an account manager at an S&P 400 insurance company, Nate has a niche specialty. His greatest strength is his ability to build relationships. Professionally and personally Nate has served the communities he has lived in and will continue his impact with our organization.
Dylan serves as our youth advisor. We are aware that the world moves at a fast pace and Dylan brings fresh perspective as a teen in today's world. We believe through Dylan we will be able to leverage today's changing trends and technology to ensure our relevance with today's youth.
Thank You for Investing.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.