AboutUs

History of A Better World

A Better World was born out of a heart that is burdened to help the under resourced. In January 2001, with the help of Forest Hill Church and many others, we started an after-school program to improve the lives of the downtrodden, and give a sense of community to our neighbors. As is often the case with children who come from broken homes affected by single-parent rearing and impoverished conditions, children lack a strong identity with role models.

We started operating the program two days a week with only eight kids enrolled, providing just juice, snacks (crackers, chips and etc.) and the opportunity to go to Disney World. Those eight students did go to Disney World, and they all graduated from high school. They are all hard-working, productive citizens. Currently, the program now has 45 students enrolled, and offers a wide range of after-school and weekend enrichment opportunities.

The purpose of A Better World is to serve the Ashley Park neighborhood of Charlotte by providing at-risk 1st through 12th grade students with a safe, positive, and loving environment. All students receive an after-school snack, tutoring, mentoring, a nutritious dinner; and access to counseling, essential clothing items, and hygiene products.

Simply put, A Better World keeps these children off the toughest streets of Ashley Park, and away from the negative influence of gangs. As a result, their grades improve, their confidence grows, and they get a new positive direction in their life. Your support ensures that these great kids can actualize their full potential

Our Mission

The mission of A Better World is to transform the community (Ashley Park and the surrounding areas) and its families through its youth (K-12); by building their mental, emotional, and spiritual character.

Board of Directors

· David Willingham [Chairperson]

· Ken Gilliard [Founder]

· Linwood Bolles

· John Clark

· Marc Dickmann

· Michael Dudan

· Sandy McCaslan

· Jon Richardson

· Bob Riggins

· David Riggins

· Jimbo Harrell

Advisory Members

· Marty Conte

· Carroll Gennings

· Richard Klingman

· Yvette Parsons

· Gordon Thornton

Staff

Ken Gilliard, Founder

“A Better World” is the result of a vision that God gave me many years ago while I lived in impoverished situations. I always believed that with the help of God and other people, those that are hurting could succeed if they had a helping hand. It was the helping hand of other people that broaden my perspective, which challenged me to desire more than the world I lived in. I believe all people that are broken and hurting need someone to believe in them, and give them the tools they need to succeed. All they hope for is “a chance.”

We are thankful for all the support and success we have received in the past. However, there are many hurdles to overcome. This community is riddled with thousands of hurting children and single parent families. Our desire is to provide them with the tools to become successful, through a loving group of people, that they trust and believe will not abandon them. If we get the financial help and volunteers, we can save the lives of thousands of people, who will do what I am doing because somebody took the time to care. Please come by and see what we are all about...and help change the lives of our young inner city youth, with your time, prayers, supply donations, or simply monetary donations. The future of our children can be improved dramatically with the local support of people just like you! Thank you.

Takisha Darden, Program Director

Married almost 2 years

Moved to Charlotte in 1997

Graduated from UNCC, Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology

Became a part of A Better World in 2002

Volunteered for one year and became assistant to the director in 2003.

Director since August 2004.

Personal mission: to provide the love, and spiritual guidance to each child that enters the doors of God's House. To assist them in making positive choices with education and life skills.