A student focused on his studies at a table

Education · Leadership · Community

Helping students rise, with the support to lead.

We expand access to higher education, build leadership skills, and strengthen African American communities through learning, wellness, and prevention.

Support our mission Explore our work
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Why this work matters

Talent is everywhere. Opportunity should be, too. We help young people move from high school toward college, career, and community leadership.

A student taking part in a classroom discussion 01 / OUR MISSION

Who we are

Education is the beginning. Leadership is the legacy.

Onward & Upward Educational Foundation, Inc. was established for charitable and educational purposes, including scholarships for graduating high school students pursuing college or university study.

Our work also advances academic success, leadership and career training, community safety, and the mental and physical health of African American people, supporting young people as they earn diplomas, degrees, and the confidence to lead.

See how we serve

Board of Directors

  • Chester MorrisBoard Member
  • Charles TalleyBoard Member
  • Shane AhneeBoard Member
  • Rodney RichardsonBoard Member
  • Michael KanneyBoard Member

What we do

A connected path from potential to progress.

Four areas of focus help students and communities build the knowledge, health, confidence, and safety needed to move forward.

01

Scholarship Support

Supporting graduating high school students who are continuing their education at accredited colleges and universities.

Opportunity to pursue higher education
02

Youth Development

Seminars, training, and mentoring that strengthen leadership, academic success, and college and career readiness.

Confident students prepared to lead
03

Health & Wellness

Awareness, resources, and programs that advocate for the mental and physical well-being of African American communities.

Healthier people and stronger families
04

Violence Prevention

Community-centered initiatives and training designed to reduce violence and encourage safer, stronger neighborhoods.

Communities equipped to thrive
A proud graduate wearing a cap, gown, and gold stole

Scholarship support

Backing ambition beyond graduation day.

Scholarships help graduating high school students continue their education at accredited colleges and universities. By supporting a student, donors help make persistence and academic achievement possible.

Who it serves
Graduating high school students pursuing higher education
Eligibility & award
Official criteria and award information forthcoming
Application period
Application dates forthcoming
Request application details Support a student

Our impact

Progress measured in possibility.

“We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to rise, lead, and succeed.”
01

Helping students pursue their academic goals

02

Building confident leaders and changemakers

03

Strengthening families and communities

04

Creating a legacy of excellence and opportunity

A student concentrating on her schoolwork
Students collaborating around a table
One student. One family. One community at a time.

Why partner with us

There is more than one way to move the mission forward.

01Fund a scholarship 02Mentor or volunteer 03Become a community partner 04Attend an event
Onward & Upward Educational Foundation emblem

Start a conversation

Help a student move onward, and a community move upward.

Email [email protected] or call (804) 605-0926 to ask about scholarships, volunteering, or partnership.