At Future Foundation, we believe every young person deserves to see themselves in the story of America’s greatness. Black History flows through the heart of our national identity, shaping our present and inspiring our future. As your Second Family, we’re committed to ensuring ALL children learn from these powerful stories of resilience, innovation, and determination.
While there is an endless list of individuals who have rewritten history, we’d like to share eight remarkable individuals who continue to light the way forward for our students. Their stories serve as blueprints for building a brighter tomorrow.
We hope these stories inspire you this month and every month.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: Dreams That Power Change
Dr. King’s vision of equality and justice continues to guide us at Future Foundation. We see his legacy in action when our students support one another, stand up for what’s right, and work toward their goals with determination.
What This Means for Our Youth Today: Dreams backed by action and community support can transform lives. When our students face challenges, they draw strength from Dr. King’s example of persistence and unity.
Recently, our CEO, Ronnette Smith and Future Foundation Board Member, Dr. Lisa Sistrunk participated along with 500 educators, students, parents, and policymakers in PTA Day at Georgia’s Capitol Building. Youth presented thoughts on what issues should be addressed to make a better world.
Ask your child: “What’s your dream for your community, and what step can you take today to make it real?”
Rosa Parks: The Courage of Conviction
Rosa Parks’ quiet strength on that Montgomery bus sparked a movement that transformed our nation. Her example shows our students that conviction and courage can create lasting change.
Making It Personal: Our After-School Program encourages students to recognize moments that call for courage. Whether speaking up against bullying or supporting a struggling friend, every act of bravery matters. How will you help someone stand up for their beliefs today?
George Washington Carver: Innovation Beyond Limits
George Washington Carver’s legacy stretches far beyond his 300 peanut-based innovations. Born into slavery, he became one of History’s greatest inventors through his remarkable ability to see potential where others saw limitations.
Bringing Innovation Home: At Future Foundation, we encourage our students to approach challenges creatively and optimistically. What everyday problem in your community could use a fresh perspective? How might your unique viewpoint lead to unexpected solutions?
Maya Angelou: Strength Through Self-Expression
Maya Angelou’s words resonate because they speak to the power of resilience and self-expression. Her life story, poetry, and prose show our students how personal experiences can inspire and strengthen others.
Finding Your Voice: Our programs create spaces for students to express themselves through writing, art, and speech. Your story holds power – how will you share it? What experiences have shaped you into who you are today?
Jackie Robinson: Breaking Barriers
Jackie Robinson transformed baseball and America through his exceptional skill and unshakeable dignity. His response to hatred and prejudice demonstrated the power of excellence combined with grace.
Excellence in Action: Our students face their own challenges in academics, athletics, and personal growth. Robinson’s example guides them to meet obstacles with determination and dignity. What challenge will you tackle with excellence today?
Harriet Tubman: Leading by Lifting Others
After securing her own freedom, Harriet Tubman devoted her life to guiding others to safety. Her actions embodied the principle that real success includes lifting others as we rise.
Building Tomorrow’s Leaders: Future Foundation students learn that leadership means supporting others’ journeys to success. How can you help someone move closer to their goals this week? What does authentic leadership mean to you?
Thurgood Marshall: Education as a Force for Change
Thurgood Marshall’s journey from lawyer to Supreme Court Justice demonstrates how education and purpose can reshape society. His work on Brown v. Board of Education opened doors for generations of students.
His example opened the door in 2022 for the first African American woman to be confirmed, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson now serves on the United States Supreme Court.
Education as a Tool for Change: We emphasize both academic excellence and character development because knowledge guided by purpose creates lasting change. How can your education serve your community? Which issues around you need addressing?
Tyler Perry: Perseverance and Purpose
Tyler Perry’s path from homelessness to entertainment pioneer demonstrates the power of staying true to your vision. His work, including the story of the Six Triple Eight, brings important untold stories to light.
Creating Your Legacy: Our students write new chapters of persistence and success every day. What will your contribution to History be? How do you want future generations to remember your impact?
Building a Legacy of Excellence
Future Foundation serves as more than a program — we’re a Second Family committed to nurturing every child’s potential. Black History Month reminds us that the past illuminates our path forward, showing every child they can make History too.
We invite you to support Future Foundation by joining us at the Keep It 100% luncheon on April 29th! You can learn more here: https://future-foundation.com/keep-it-100/
