Who We Are
The Torch of Wisdom Foundation, Inc. (TOWF) was incorporated on May 24, 1993. Our 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity was inspired by a group of African American college educated women, all members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – Southfield Alumnae Chapter (DST-SAC). The incorporating members were Gwendolyn Powell, Leonora Thompson, Peggy Harrell, Ayana Yearby, and Arlene Young. The Foundation was organized for the following purposes:
- To help improve and promote education in the United States.
- To solicit, collect, receive and administer funds exclusively for charitable, scientific, and educational purposes as permitted for organizations defined in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Building upon the legacy of the founders, the board leadership rebranded the organization in 2010 and refined the goals of the organization to focus on three major objectives: Community Enrichment, Cultural Arts, and Scholarship. Additionally, the motto; “CHANGING TOMORROW TODAY™” reflects the support and programs offered by the Foundation TODAY will have a positive influence and long-lasting impact on its recipients in the FUTURE.
The incorporating team also envisioned acquiring a facility where youth and families could go for educational support, mentoring and recreation. The vision of a facility came to fruition in September 2011. The Torch of Wisdom Foundation, Inc. acquired a commercial office building, located at 21819 West Nine Mile Road, Southfield, Michigan, which houses the Foundation’s office, provides tenancy to DST-SAC and several small businesses. Our facility also has available public space that community members or organizations can rent to host meetings, training sessions and other community events. To date, the facility manages monthly 60-70 hours of educational seminars and meetings with a direct emphasis on benefitting youth and families. Over 600 individuals pass through the halls monthly, participating in activities focused on enriching the community.
In 2012, the Foundation took a bold step and launched two educational programs targeting youth in Oakland County. Young Women for Change (YWFC) was developed in collaboration with the Michigan Women’s Foundation which taught young girls ages 14-18 how to "create change" in their community through a series of workshops and a final community project. YWFC was rebranded in 2019 as The Wisdom Warrior Project to expand its community outreach beyond Oakland County. Also in 2012, through the vision of then Southfield Mayor, and current Michigan Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence, the TOWF created the Learning Network, which encompassed a paid six week youth employability program for students ages 15-19. In the spirit of the bold steps taken in 2012, these programs continue today, in partnership with local businesses and corporate sponsors.
The acquisition of a community facility, continuous extension of scholarships and grants to deserving community groups, and creation of youth development programs enabled significant growth and a deeper investment in the betterment of our community. TOWF is CHANGING TOMORROW TODAY™.
Our Mission
Torch of Wisdom Foundation strives to positively impact the lives of Southeastern Michigan youth and families by delivering academic, cultural, economic, and social programs that create boundless possibilities for future growth and development. We partner with, support and encourage those within the community who share our goal of Changing Tomorrow Today™
Our Vision
Torch of Wisdom Foundation is recognized as a leader within the SE Michigan community, fostering educational programming; promoting empowerment and personal and professional development.
The Values That Empower Us:
We believe in Changing Tomorrow Today™ by creating and developing personal and professional opportunities that enrich the mind, touch the soul, and fan the flames of cultural, educational, and economic awareness.
These values fuel us to do the intentional work:
CARING
We possess foundational respect for all by valuing different perspectives and experiences.
COMMUNITY
We believe true community comes through understanding, collaboration, and partnership as we engage with our key stakeholders (youth, families, donors, and community partners).
EQUITY
By embracing inclusivity and cultural sensitivity, we strive to understand the needs of youth and families.
INTEGRITY
We are accountable and hold high ethical standards. We value honesty and transparency with our community partners, donors, volunteers, participants, and one another.
OPPORTUNITY
Through our community grants, programming and events, we provide valuable resources for the people we serve.