09/23/2023
The Board of Directors would like to thank our volunteers, participants, donors, partners, and other stakeholders for their support of the mission of the Andrew L. Hicks, Jr. Foundation over the past 13 years. We are grateful for the opportunity to have served thousands of children by connecting two culturally diverse communities, empowering their youth through mentorship and leadership while building dynamic futures. It’s been an honor and a privilege for all of us to serve in that capacity.
Due to changing circumstances, it is with sadness we’re announcing an end to our programming for students in grades K-10 We have enjoyed monthly Open Events such as Open Bowl, the Christmas Toy Store and of course, Camp Lionheart. It’s been exciting to see elementary school students who participated with the Foundation grow into the Warrior Guides program and get to know our high school volunteers so intimately. Most of those 4th - 6th grade Chester children matriculated into our RISE Teen Leadership Development Program for 7th - 9th graders. Many of those teens entered our Launch college and career preparatory program and over the past three years 20 have graduated and are now attending college. It’s been a joy to see so many Chester children grow into talented and strong young people through the Foundation’s multi-tiered programs.
Moving forward the Foundation felt that best way to maximize the generosity of our donors was to focus on supporting the 20 graduates of the Launch program ensuring that they have what they need to successfully complete their college education. We will also provide SAT tutoring for our high school Juniors and college and career preparatory counseling for our Seniors. It is our goal to provide a positive trajectory for all of the Launch students. Former Board member Leslie Kelso, who has been a part of the Launch program from its inception, has assumed the role of Launch Director to ensure they all finish strong.
Karen Hicks stepped down as the Director of Development in late April. The Foundation’s Executive Director, Rick Kone, resigned in May, due to personal reasons. Based on the void left by these changes and the challenges to adequately fill these positions, the Board of Directors made the decision to end the Foundation’s programming and focus solely on ensuring the students in our Launch program, many who have been with our program since second grade, are supported enabling them to reach their full potential.
You have our heartfelt thanks for your support over the past 13 years. Karen and Andy Hicks express their deepest gratitude to the people of the West Chester and Chester communities who have come together to share the love of Christ with one another in meaningful and impactful ways. It’s been a joy for all of us.
The Board of Directors would like to thank our volunteers, participants, donors, partners, and other stakeholders for their support of the mission of the Andrew L. Hicks, Jr. Foundation over the past
