Hello, everyone,

In North Philadelphia, some people are neighbors. Willamae McCullough is a landmark. For over 30 years, she has been a freedom fighter, a community champion, and the cherished 'Block Captain' who holds her neighborhood up and teaches it how to grow.

Willamae's story is one of unwavering dedication. Following in the footsteps of her uncles who founded the 'Each One Teach One' youth program in Harlem- a program so impactful it was honored on the floor of Congress in 1973- Willamae has been a force for change in our city. She has founded multiple community organizations like All My Children Too and Love Thy Neighbor, served as a community center director for 10 years, and even stood up to an eviction-happy landlord to protect her neighbor's home- and won.

She doesn't just talk about making change; she makes it happen.

Once a year, Willamae connects her kids in Philly to this powerful legacy. She takes her 15 basketball players on a pilgrimage to the place where it all began: Holcombe Rucker Park in New York City, for a tournament against her family's New York teams.

This year, the trip is more than just a game.

On Sunday, September 7th, Rucker Park will be officially designated as a National Historic Commemorative Site. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these 15 young men and women from North Philly to witness history. It's a chance for them to see that their community, their history, and the game they love are a vital part of America's story. 

Willamae has given three decades of her life to this work. Now, for the first time, she's asking for our help to raise the $7,450 needed to make this historic journey possible.

This is our chance to give back to the woman who has given so much. Let's rally around the freedom fighter who has always fought for our kids and our community.

How Your Donation Will Help:

Your contribution will directly cover the costs to give these 15 kids, and their basketball team, an unforgettable experience:

Bus - $3150

Uniforms - $975

Sneakers - $1350

Food & Snacks - $400

Towels and bags - $450

Basketballs - $200

Banner - $500

Supplies - $400

Total - $7425

This isn't just about a basketball game. It's about honoring a legacy, inspiring the next generation, and showing a true community hero that she is not in this fight alone.

Every donation goes directly to Willamae's non-profit charity, National Association of Each One Teach One.

Thank you for being part of Willamae's team.