We had the good fortune of connecting with William Crawford and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi William, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
The idea of my nonprofit, WJC Foundation came about through personal life experiences as well as my desire to help end homelessness. I’ve went through a journey in life where I was alone, without shelter and when I needed resources to help me there was very little. I’ve always wanted to give back even when I couldn’t give to myself. I feel that my passion in life is to not only recognize issues within my community but to also help solve them. This is what manifested my business. I did research not only within my local community but within the state and to my surprise no one offers everything that the WJC Foundation does in one setting. The WJC Foundation is a nonprofit organization that is on the move to provide youth ages 16-25 who are experiencing homelessness a safe haven from the streets while connecting them to resources to have them achieve what they thought they never could.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The WJC foundation is different from other organizations because its a one stop shop. It will connect them to GED programs, medical insurance, job opportunities, affordable housing, scholarship opportunities, drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs, and therapists. WJC Foundation will have a high focus for those between the age range of 16-25 that are of the LGBTQIA+ community. Statistics show that the United States homeless youth population is increasing dramatically and in that percent, most person(s) identify with the LGBTQIA+ community. I am proud to be a voice and ally to such an underrepresented group and excited to see the impact that the foundation can make globally. The business started as an after school program that evolved into this multifaceted organization that is growing daily. By all means it has not been easy but everyday there is something that reminds to keep going. There has been many delays and fears but I’ve learned delayed doesn’t mean denied and sometimes a denial means greater is waiting for you. I want the world to know that these teens could have easily been one of us and if you can help someone, do it. You do not need a camera or recognition if you help, the reward is their future. WJC Foundation is fairly new but we are coming and we are coming strong.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
All of my success is owed to my faith. I am very rooted in my faith and know that I wouldn’t be where I am today without that. I also share part of my success to my wonderful mentor Joseph Goodman who constantly pushes me to keep going and always make sure that whenever and however I need him, he will be there. He is a great man and I am so humbled to have met him and been able to learn many things from him.

Website: www.thewjcfoundation.org

Instagram: wjcfoundation_

Facebook: WJC Foundation

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