.png)
PROJECT LAUNCH EXPOSURE PROGRAM COMING SOON!
AGES 12-15
Empowering Communities. Expanding Possibilities.
At the Wanda K Project, we are committed to empowering individuals in marginalized communities to envision a future far beyond their current reality. Too often, limited access to resources, experiences, and opportunities can narrow what people believe is possible for their lives.
We exist to change that.
Our work supports communities that may simply need encouragement, exposure, and uplifting opportunities to help them see beyond their current reality. We believe that when people are given hope, support, and a chance to experience something greater, they can begin to envision a different path for themselves and for their children.
.png)
Community Impact
.png)
.png)
.jpg)
Founder’s Story
I Was No Different. I Just Got the Chance to See More.
I am the only daughter of Wanda K., and my story begins with a mother who loved her children deeply but, like so many single mothers, was simply trying to make it through life with the resources she had.
My mother was doing the best she could. She was working, raising her children, and carrying responsibilities that could overwhelm anyone. I wasn’t raised by my grandparents because my mother didn’t love or care for me. I was blessed to have grandparents who stepped in when my mother needed support.
My mother and grandparents had limited education and limited resources. They couldn’t give me everything they may have wanted to give me, but my mother gave me something I will carry with me forever: The unconditional belief that I could become whatever I dreamed of becoming. I remember telling my mother I wanted to be a model. She would proudly tell anyone who would listen, "My baby is going to be a model" She gave me the courage to dream. My grandparents allowed me the opportunity to visit other family members who lived outside of my community. Those visists opened my eyes and it allowed me to experience something I now understand to be priceless: exposure.
I saw neighborhoods that looked different from mine. I saw people living different lives. I experienced a new way of life and something happened inside of me. I began to see possibilities. I realized that the place I was born, the circumstances surrounding me, and what I saw every day did not have to be the boundaries of my life.There was more. And I could be more. I wasn’t different from the children I want to reach today. I didn’t come from a family with unlimited resources. I didn’t have parents with advanced degrees opening every door for me. I didn’t have everything figured out. What I did have was determination, encouragement, and the opportunity to see something beyond what was familiar. Once I saw it, I wanted it! And I pursued it.
I took the exposure my family helped give me and used it to dream bigger, work harder, and create a life beyond what I could have imagined growing up. That is why I believe so strongly in reaching back. Because sometimes a child doesn’t need someone to change their entire life for them. They just need someone to help them see that a different life is possible. Take them somewhere they’ve never been. Introduce them to someone they’ve never met. Let them sit in a room they never imagined they belonged in. Show them careers, colleges, businesses, technology, arts, and communities beyond their own.
Give them a glimpse of possibility. Because once a child can see it, they can begin to believe it. And once they believe it, determination can take them places they never imagined.
That is my mission.
The Wanda K Project is my way of reaching back and giving underserved children the kind of exposure that helped change my life. I want kids to know: You are not your neighborhood. You are not your family’s income. You are not limited by what your parents were able to have or provide. Your beginning does not have to determine your ending. I know this because I lived it. I was no different. I simply got the opportunity to see beyond what I knew. Now, I want to make sure other children get that chance, too.
My mother and grandparents helped me see a bigger world than my small town in Alabama.
Now I want to help an entire generation see theirs.
"My Black is Beautiful" national campagin ad model.
"I am my mother's LEGACY"
sharing the cover with President Obama and first lady Michelle.
Be the change you want to see!
Founder of 40z Rock magazine dedicated to inspiring women in their 40z.
In Loving Memory of Wanda K
"I am LEGACY"
The Wanda K Project was created in honor of Wanda K., a resilient mother who, by the age of 20, was the mother of two of her four children. Raised in a small town in Alabama. growing up during a time when education was not always prioritized. Wanda had limited education, and as a result, she faced many challenges that made everyday life harder.
As a single mother of four children, Wanda worked in underpaid and physically taxing jobs. Much of her work took place in harsh and unhealthy environments, including a local chicken plant. I believed that prolonged exposure to these conditions contributed to her bout with asthma, an illness that would ultimately take her life at an early age of 52. Like many single mothers facing economic hardship, Wanda lived in local housing projects where resources and opportunities were limited. Yet through every struggle, she carried the same hopes that many people in underserved communities hold today—the hope for better opportunities, support, and a brighter future for their children.
Wanda passed away but her story and spirit continue to inspire. The Wanda K Project was founded to honor her life by creating the very opportunities she did not have, providing underserved youth and communities with exposure, resources, and life-changing experiences that expand their vision of what is possible.
Through this work, Wanda’s legacy lives on—empowering the next generation to dream bigger, reach further, and believe that their circumstances do not define their future.
Our Empowerment Initiatives
Community Wellness Walk
Alexander City and the surrounding areas, there’s nothing like community support to keep you going. A walking group, a neighbor who joins you each Thursday, or inspiration from programs like this one can turn a simple habit into something uplifting. Community brings accountability, encouragement.
Hope to see you there! #Every Thursday 5:30pm at CACC.
Bring the whole family, kids are welcome! Let’s build healthy habits together, one step at a time.
Building healthy habits early
DID YOU KNOW?
Just 20–30 minutes of walking most days can help lower blood pressure, strengthen the heart, and improve blood flow. Over time, it makes your heart more efficient and reduces the pressure on your arteries.
.png)
Ready to Begin Your Health Journey? Let’s Do This Together!
.png)
PERSONAL TRAINER & LINE DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Classes ONLY $5 (TUES & THURS)
"I’ve struggled with my own weight, and I know the power of having a team. Let’s take this journey together, motivate each other, and celebrate every win." - Lynn
@tommelynn
YOU CAN START NOW MOTIVATIONAL COACH
@ucanstartnow
"Destroy every narrative you created
for yourself and exceed the limits you
put on your potential". - Taminko
Community In Motion
Next Gen College & Career Leadership Expo
August 8th 2026 Time: 10- 3pm Location: Laurel Recenter | Alexander City, AL
This event was born from a deeply personal place. As a first-generation college student, I understand the uncertainty, fear, and lack of direction that many young people face when considering higher education. While I was fortunate enough to pursue a college education, I did not have a roadmap. My mother, whom I loved dearly, had limited educational opportunities and was unable to guide me through the college admissions process. Like many parents in our communities, she wanted the best for me but simply did not have the knowledge or resources to help me navigate that journey.
Today, there are countless students throughout Alexander City and the surrounding areas who dream of attending College or a University. Yet many of them do not know where to begin. They may not know how to apply, what scholarships are available, what programs fit their interests, or even whether college is truly within their reach. For some, the dream stops there, not because they lack ability, ambition, or potential, but because they lack access and exposure.
The Inaugural Expo is designed to change that.
By bringing colleges, universities, businesses, and community leaders together under one roof, we hope to provide students and families with direct access to the information, resources, and relationships that can transform aspirations into achievable goals. A single conversation with an admissions representative can give a student the confidence to apply. A brochure can become a roadmap. A connection can become an opportunity that changes the course of a young person's life.
Meet Our Featured Guest Speaker: CEO Shan
Get ready to be inspired by CEO Shan, founder of Simply Scents Candle Co. and a nationally recognized entrepreneur with more than 25 years of business experience.
Shan's journey is a powerful example of what determination, hard work, and faith can achieve. She began making candles in her grandmother's kitchen, then expanded to the front porch, the garage, and eventually her own warehouse. In the early days, she sold her products from the trunk of her car. Today, Simply Scents Candles has grown into a worldwide brand, proving that every successful business starts with a dream and the courage to keep going.
At the Next Gen College & Career Leadership Expo, Shan will share her inspiring story and practical advice on how you can turn an idea into a successful business. Whether you're interested in starting a business, building a career, or learning how to overcome obstacles, you won't want to miss this opportunity.
Shan's Inspiring Message:
"When I was growing up, Career Day usually meant hearing from a police officer or a firefighter. Today, I show up for my community so young people can see entrepreneurs who look like them and know they can build something great too."
Come hear firsthand how one woman's dream became an international business and discover your own journey.
🎉 Sign Up Early for Free Expo Giveaways!!
Walkins are welcome. However, if you register @ email info@wandakproject.org with the names and ages of everyone who will be attending to guarantee you get the Free Giveaways. If you don't register it' first come first serve for Giveaways.
This is a community event is designed to support a wide range of participants, including:
-
Youth in 8th grade and above
-
High school students exploring future opportunities
-
Individuals seeking employment
-
Adults looking to advance their careers
-
Anyone interested in technical schools, colleges, workforce training, and community resources
Whether you're planning your education, searching for a job, or exploring new career pathways, this event offers valuable information, networking opportunities, and resources to help you succeed.
DREAM BIG
EXPO 2026
A special thank you to The Soul Brothas for being our food sponsor and providing lunch for expo attendees. Your support helped make this event a success, and we truly appreicate your time and investment in our community.
MEN'S CHURCH CHALLENGE
Gibraltar Lodge 173 and the Wanda K Project are challenging all men to join us at CACC every Thursday at 5:30 PM during the month of June.
Bring your men out to walk, support men’s mental health, and represent your church!
The church with the biggest turnout of men for the month will take home a $200 gift prize.
Let’s show the ladies how it’s done!
.png)
Mental Health Awareness Month
Community Wellness Walk & Balloon Release
May 21st @ 5:30 pm CACC ( Community Walk Every Thursday) First 3 people win a FREE line dance class
We will begin our community walk with a special balloon release symbolizing hope, healing, and new beginnings. This meaningful moment will encourage participants to let go of anything that may be weighing them down or preventing them from becoming their best selves as we walk together in support of mental health awareness.
Following the balloon release, we will continue with our community walk to promote the importance of protecting and improving mental health through movement and connection. Walking has many positive benefits, including reducing stress, improving mood, boosting energy, and supporting emotional wellness.
Join us as we come together to raise awareness, encourage healing, and remind one another that mental health matters.
The Legacy Museum Trip
A Day of Discovery
The Legacy Sites invite visitors to reckon with our history of racial injustice in places where that history was lived.
Situated on lands occupied by Indigenous people for centuries, in a region that once held the largest population of enslaved Black people and would later become the heart of the Civil Rights movement, the Legacy Sites offer visitors a powerful opportunity to engage with history and begin an era of truth telling.
Trip Details
On April 24th, we are planning a special community trip for 28 participants total (including youth ages 10 and up and 6 adult chaperones) to visit the Legacy African American Museum in Montgomery, Alabama. This experience is designed to give our young people the opportunity to learn about the powerful history that shaped our nation and to better understand the resilience, courage, and contributions of those who came before them. Montgomery holds a sacred place in American history, especially in the story of the Civil Rights Movement. Our goal is for them to leave inspired, with a deeper sense of identity, pride, and understanding of how their history can influence their future and the positive impact they can make in the world.
Thank You to Our Breakfast Sponsor
We are incredibly grateful to Chick-fil-A for generously providing a delicious breakfast for our participants before our trip. Their kindness and support helped everyone start the day with a great meal and plenty of energy for the journey ahead.
Thank you, Chick-fil-A, for being a valued partner and for helping make this experience even more special for our participants!
-
Meeting Location: Chick-fil-A (local meeting point)
-
Arrival Time: 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM (breakfast will be provided)
-
Departure Time: 9:00 AM (bus leaves promptly)
-
Destination: Montgomery, Alabama
-
Included: Breakfast, lunch, transportation, and museum admission
Who Should Attend
-
Youth ages 10 and up
-
Families and community members
-
Volunteers interested in supporting and guiding youth
Thank You to Our Transportation
We are incredibly grateful to Dobb Transportation for providing a wonderful travel experience for our participants. Their generosity, professionalism, and commitment to safe and comfortable transportation helped make our trip enjoyable from beginning to end.
Thank you, Dobb Transportation, for your valued partnership and for helping make this journey a memorable one!
Starting April 18, we’re bringing back our 3rd Saturday Community Clean-Up! We believe our mindset is everything, and the way we care for our community reflects how we feel about ourselves.
We invite churches, schools, local organizations, families, and young athletes to join us as we work together to uplift and take pride in our neighborhood.
Meet us there and be part of the change!
Young men showing up for their community
Men who show up to lead-
3rd Saturday each month
Community Clean-up
We're Back!
PROJECT LAUNCH- Exposure Program
COMING SOON!
Project Launch is a transformative exposure program designed to give underserved youth the opportunity to explore careers in technology, science, and finance—fields where they have historically been underrepresented. Through immersive experiences, company visits, hands-on learning, and mentorship, students gain real-world insight into industries that shape our future.
This program is rooted in a powerful vision: to create a future where underserved youth have access to opportunities that expand their perspective and unlock their potential. By equipping students with the skills, confidence, and inspiration needed to succeed, Project Launch empowers them to become the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders in their communities.
Investing in these young people goes beyond individual growth—it is an investment in the future of our communities, our industries, and a more equitable and prosperous society. Project Launch helps students see beyond their current circumstances and recognize that their potential is not defined by their zip code.
We believe in a future where opportunity is not limited by geography, and where every young person has the exposure, support, and belief needed to lead.
MIA GORMAN | POET & ACTIVIST
Gorman made history as the youngest poet to read at a presidential inauguration in United States history, when her poem, "The Hills We Climb" catapulted her into international stardom. Raised by a single mother in Los Angeles, Gorman overcame speech and vocal impediments, crediting this challenge for her growth as a reader and writer.
Mia is a powerful example of what happens when a young person is seen, supported, and invested in.
Things You Should Know:
HOW WILL STUDENTS BE SELECTED?
The Wanda K Project is looking for 10 young people ages 12-15 who are committed to learning, community-minded, and ready to discover new possibilities. This experience will take place March 14th-17th 2027.
REQUIRED
Each applicant must have at least two teachers visit the application site and submit a recommendation on their behalf.
Teachers are asked to share why they believe the student would benefit from this experience and how the student demonstrates qualities such as character, leadership, effort, or a willingness to learn. Please Note: It can be any teacher. It is not limited to current teachers.
OPTIONAL — SET YOURSELF APART
Students may submit additional information to help the selection committee learn more about who they are, their accomplishments, and commitment to their community.
The optional items are simply additional ways to tell your story and strengthen your application. Having more items does not guarantee selection, and not having them does not prevent you from being selected.
However, the additional information shows us what makes you a great candidate.
✍🏽 1. Tell Us Why You Should Be Selected
Submit a personal letter explaining why you would like to participate, what this opportunity would mean to you, and what you hope to learn or discover. 2 pg one-sided Max
🤝🏽 2. Community Service
Submit documentation of volunteer or charity hours completed with a nonprofit, community organization, or other charitable organization.
⛪ 3. Church Recommendation
Submit a recommendation from your church, youth leader, pastor, ministry leader, or other church representative who knows you and can speak to your character and involvement.
🏆 4. Share Something You've Accomplished
Submit a project, award, accomplishment, or other work you have been recognized for. This could include a school project, community project, business idea, artwork, technology project, leadership activity, competition, or another accomplishment that represents you.
REMEMBER
You don't have to do everything.
The optional items are simply additional ways to tell your story and strengthen your application.
We understand that every student has different experiences, resources, interests, and opportunities. We want to give everyone a chance to show us who they are and what makes them special.
READY TO SHOW US WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT?
Apply. Tell your story. Let your teachers speak for you.
Give us a reason to see the possibilities in YOU.
PARTICIPANTS ELIGIBILITY & EXPECTATIONS
We are committed to providing a safe, positive, and enriching experience for every student. Because this is a structured group experience involving travel, activities, and interactions with professionals and organizations, students must meet all participation requirements.
Unfortunately, a student will be disqualified from participating if they fall into any of the following categories:
-
Unable to safely participate in the required walking, physical activities, or scheduled experiences.
-
Unable to function appropriately in a group environment.
-
Has a history of refusing to follow reasonable instructions or comply with adult authority.
-
Has been suspended more than once or disciplined for fighting, skipping school, or serious/unruly conduct involving a teacher or other school staff.
-
Has a criminal record that would make participation inappropriate.
-
Has a parent or guardian who has been banned or prohibited from a school or an organization affiliated with a school.
These requirements are NOT OPTIONAL. They are in place to protect the safety, well-being, and experience of all students, chaperones, partners, and participating organizations.
Our goal is to give 10 young people an opportunity to learn, explore, build confidence, and experience possibilities beyond their everyday surroundings.
Help Us Change a Child’s Trajectory
We all know a young person who has so much potential—a child with big dreams, a bright mind, or a gift that simply needs someone willing to believe in them and invest in their future.
That is the heart of the Wanda K Project.
We believe sometimes all a young person needs is an opportunity to see something different, experience something new, and have someone say, “I believe in you.”
We also know there are parents, organizations, businesses, and everyday people who want to do the same.
So today, we are asking you to chip in and help us make this journey possible.
Your contribution will help provide airfare, hotel accommodations, food, transportation, and activities for our youth as they travel to Los Angeles for an experience designed to expose them to new industries, careers, and possibilities.
This is more than a trip. It is an opportunity to plant a seed, expand a dream, and possibly change the trajectory of a child’s life.
No contribution is too small. Every dollar brings us one step closer.
Please Note: This is a free experience for your child. However, parents may be asked to assist with fundraising efforts to help provide additional funding for activities, events, and special experiences that students may have the opportunity to participate in throughout the program.
We truly appreciate your willingness to support us in making these opportunities possible and helping create a meaningful and memorable experience for your child. Thank you for being part of our community!