"It is said that we all influence at least 250 people in our lifetime. We each have the responsibility of leadership." - Katherine J. Kehler.

Phyllis Wheatley staff believe that we all posess untapped ability to succeed and to be positive leaders in community, at work or school -- and in our families.

How does PWCC "Stir the Leader Within"?

It starts with a NATIONALLY ACCREDITED early childhood development program (NAEYC - National Association for the Education of Young Children), and continues with innovative school age youth programs and opportunities for adults/parents to develop the skills they need to achieve the goals they set for themselves.

Byron's Story:
Byron, a 30-something unemployed father who came to Minneapolis from Kansas City, brought with him a long history of destructive behaviors that included various drug addictions and criminal offenses that ranged from disorderly conduct to attempted murder. Byron also brought with him a wife and two young children.

Byron’s wife was also a long time crack addict. Dysfunction was normal in their family; they argued and fought often, usually over drugs and money and several times police intervention was required. After one too many police calls, the children were removed from the home and placed in the custody of child protection authorities. Byron and his wife were ordered by the court to complete an approved program if they were to have any hope of regaining custody of their children. Byron’s wife opted to return to Kansas City. Byron made the commitment to change his life and do what ever it took to be a good father and family leader for his children. Byron chose to work with Phyllis Wheatley based on the recommendations of others.

Phyllis Wheatley staff told Byron they believed in him and were committed to helping him change his ways - but made it clear that they would only be able to help him if he made an equally demanding commitment. A written agreement was signed and staff worked with him to put a plan together that would give him the skills and access to resources he would need in order to build a positive support network and be the family leader he desired to be. His goal was to prove to himself that he could provide a safe, healthy, nurturing home for his children. After many months of hard work, Byron completed his plan and regained custody of his children. Byron knows that the hardest work still lies ahead - but he is dedicated to working his plan to make a better life for himself and his children.

PWCC programs foster hope by providing a safe place that brings people and resources together to address life's often unpredictable challenges. Our commitment to asset-based approaches helps individuals and families discover, identify and build upon their strengths. Success is modeled through a legacy of leaders and leadership that serves as a road map for those seeking to improve their condition and to have a positive impact on their family and in their community.

Phyllis Wheatley Community Center was founded under the namesake of Phillis Wheatley, an 18th Century girl-slave who became the first African American to publish a book (poetry). Phillis' incredible true story reminds us that in spite of what may be happening on the outside, there is something deep within each of us that can help us succeed - and lead - where we are!

Learn more about Phyllis Wheatley Community Center, our programs, impact, volunteer opportunities, and participant stories by visiting us at: www.phylliswheatley.org