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Our 
Vision

The Launch Factor

What happens when creativity meets opportunity.

The Launch Pad envisions empowered youth achieving and thriving independently while exhibiting strong life, communication, and practical skills for the betterment of the next generations.

 

Through engaging hands-on experiences and interactive workshops, we strive to equip each young person with the confidence and competence needed to thrive in all areas of life.

At The Launch Pad, we value belonging, growth, resilience, opportunity, leadership, and community.

These values shape how we support young people, celebrate their progress, and create pathways for confidence, achievement, and future success.

Our Launch Points  (Our Approach)

Smiling Group Circle

Together, these launch points form the foundation of an approach that empowers youth through opportunity, preparation, recognition, and support—helping them build brighter futures with confidence and direction.

At The Launch Pad, our work is guided by a set of core launch points that help young people build confidence, expand opportunity, and prepare for long-term success. These launch points reflect our commitment to whole-person development by combining exposure, achievement, practical skill-building, wellness, and community connection. Together, they create a framework that helps participants not only discover their potential, but also develop the tools, support, and momentum needed to move forward with purpose.

Opportunity & Exposure

We create meaningful opportunities for youth to explore new experiences, environments, and possibilities beyond their immediate surroundings. By increasing exposure to enrichment activities, leadership opportunities, creative expression, and broader career pathways, we help young people expand their vision for what is possible.

Recognition & Achievement

We believe recognition builds confidence, motivation, and a sense of belonging. Through showcases, competitions, celebrations, and public acknowledgment of effort and accomplishment, we ensure young people feel seen, valued, and encouraged to keep striving toward excellence.

Skill Building

We equip youth with practical, transferable skills that support personal growth, academic success, and future readiness. From communication and leadership to creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving, our programs are designed to help participants build real-world capabilities they can carry into school, work, and life.

Financial Empowerment

We introduce youth to the foundations of economic awareness, financial literacy, and long-term self-sufficiency. By helping participants understand money management, goal setting, and economic opportunity, we support the development of habits and knowledge that contribute to future stability and mobility.

Confidence & Resilience

We recognize that success is not only built through talent, but also through mindset, perseverance, and emotional strength. Our approach supports confidence, mental resilience, and self-belief so that young people are better prepared to navigate challenges, adapt to change, and continue moving forward.

Community Support

We connect youth and families to the resources, relationships, and encouragement needed to thrive. By fostering community partnerships and creating pathways to support, we strengthen the network surrounding each participant and reinforce that success is not achieved alone.

Meet The Crew

Team

Joi McCrary

President & Executive Director

Robert Goliday

Co-VP & Program Director

DeWayne Boyd

Co-VP & Program Director

Advisory Board

We are thoughtfully building an advisory board of community-minded leaders and champions who believe in the potential of young people and the power of opportunity.

Interested in supporting our work? We welcome conversations with prospective advisors, partners, and champions who believe in empowering youth and families.

Board Inquiries

Although we are building our advisory board by invitation, we welcome thoughtful inquiries from aligned community leaders and supporters.

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