Began in the summer of 2009 as just an eight-week summer enrichment program. Today, Why We Cant Wait, WWCW, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency with nine complementary programs: WWCW Afterschool Academy, WWCW Ambassadors, WWCW South, WWCW Boys to Men/Girls to Rosebuds, WWCW East, Cultivating Character in Millennials (CCM) Leadership Academy, WWCW B.A.S.I.C, WWCW Career Applications Regarding Students (C.A.R.S.)
Why We Can’t Wait, Inc. follows and tracts each and every one of our students throughout their academic careers. Aiming to provide our students a platform to experience diversity, equity, and inclusion while giving hope for a brighter future. Our mission is to empower and develop youth in underserved communities an opportunity to be productive citizens in society. Striving to improve the home dynamics of our participants. Holistic in nature, while instilling strong academic disciplines, we recognize the need to support participants outside the classroom. Furthermore, we encourage better Parent-Child relationships, and work to combat growing health concerns such as, but not limited to, childhood diabetes, childhood obesity, violence, and sedentary lifestyles of families.
Why We Cant Wait, Inc.
Afterschool Academy
Throughout the academic school year WWCW come together after school Monday - Friday. Located at Cleveland Street Baptist Church, 608 Cleveland Street. Operating September to May, daily activities include mindfulness, journaling, homework/tutoring, literacy, dinner, enrichment activities, i.e., flag football, African dance, art therapy, HipHop dance, drama, swimming, parent engagement, family supper, showcase, field trips.
Cultivating Character in Millennials
A summer scholastic program aiming to provide students with a stimulating learning environment, encouraging exploration and skill development beyond the standard classroom experience. Monday through Friday students will meet 7:00am to 5:00pm. Students will engage in activities included but not limited to STEM, Leadership Development, Arts/Crafts Theapy Drama, Hip Hop/African Dance, Sewing, etc. College tours on Thursday and field trips on Friday. We serve breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack. The goal of the program is to prep youth for academic success while developing them physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally as leaders.
Jessie Mae Caldwell Scholarship
The WWCW Jessie Mae Caldwell scholarship brunch is held each year in honor of the Executive Director’s mother. She was a single parent of five and believed in education as the key to successfully moving from humble beginnings to a bright future. Each year, students from 10 high schools receive a $500 scholarship that is matched by Fifth Third Bank. In addition, Why We Can’t Wait, Inc., uses this event as our annual fundraiser.