Chambers-McCain Foundation

The Chambers-McCain Foundation, established on March 1, 2018, is a nonprofit organization based in the United States dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Greater Charlotte community. The Foundation operates under the 501(c)(3) designation, allowing it to engage in various charitable activities focused on leadership, economic development, education, and social development.

History

The foundation was named in honor of two prominent figures, Franklin Eugene McCain and Julius LeVonne Chambers, both of whom significantly influenced the civil rights movement and community development in Charlotte, North Carolina. McCain was notably a member of the Greensboro Four, recognized for initiating a sit-in protest against racial segregation at a Woolworth lunch counter in Greensboro in 1960. This act is credited with igniting a nationwide movement against racial discrimination. Chambers was a distinguished civil rights attorney and educator, known for his role as the third Director-Counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, where he litigated pivotal cases impacting civil rights, including school desegregation and voting rights.

Mission

The mission of the Chambers-McCain Foundation is to cultivate, achieve, and sustain the highest quality of life for individuals in its community. The Foundation prioritizes the following areas:

• Scholarship Programs: Providing financial aid to deserving students.

• Mentoring: Developing leaders through guidance and support.

• Leadership Development: Fostering skills necessary for effective leadership in various sectors.

• Community Capacity Building: Enhancing the abilities of community organizations to serve their constituents effectively.

Achievements

Since its inception, the Chambers-McCain Foundation has made substantial contributions to the local community, including:

• Providing over $90,000 in scholarships to young African American men in the past five years.

• Supporting more than 500 young men through various mentoring and leadership development initiatives.

• Donating over $10,000 to other community organizations to enhance their programs and reach.

Board of Directors

The governance of the Chambers-McCain Foundation is executed by a committed Board of Directors, which includes:

• Robert Keene - Chairman
• William "Teddy" McDaniel, III - Vice Chairman
• Ryan E. Goldsberry - Secretary
• Richard DeVaughn - Treasurer
• Additional board members include Ron Ancrum, Robert E. Harrington, D. Oscar Groomes, Benjamin Robinson, and Darrel Williams.

Community Impact

By committing to its mission, the Chambers-McCain Foundation plays a critical role in promoting education and community service within Charlotte. Efforts are concentrated on creating pathways for youth empowerment, education, and leadership in a region historically marked by the struggle for civil rights.