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Next Gen College & Career Leadership Expo
Your Next Opportunity Is Waiting!
Join us August 8th and discover education, career, and community opportunities that could change your life.
Empowering Communities. Expanding Possibilities.
At the Wanda K Project, we are committed to empowering individuals in marginalized communities to envision a future far beyond their current reality. Too often, limited access to resources, experiences, and opportunities can narrow what people believe is possible for their lives.
We exist to change that.
Our work supports communities that may simply need encouragement, exposure, and uplifting opportunities to help them see beyond their current reality. We believe that when people are given hope, support, and a chance to experience something greater, they can begin to envision a different path for themselves and for their children.
Community Impact
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Founder’s Story
As the only daughter of Wanda K., I grew up watching my mother navigate life as a single parent while doing everything she could to support and encourage her children. Despite the challenges she faced, she always reminded me that I was beautiful, intelligent, and capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. She never allowed me to believe that my circumstances defined my future.
Although my mother did not always have access to the opportunities she deserved, she constantly encouraged me to dream bigger and pursue a life beyond our surroundings. Her words and belief in me shaped the person I am today.
I founded the Wanda K Project to honor her legacy and to create the opportunities she never had. Our goal is to empower marginalized communities through education, awareness, and exposure—helping individuals understand how community issues and decisions impact their lives and their children’s futures.
We believe that mindset is powerful. The way we see ourselves and the world shapes the paths we choose, and that mindset is often passed down to the next generation. Through the Wanda K Project, we strive to inspire families to believe in their potential, dream beyond their circumstances, and build brighter futures for themselves and their children.
Founder of a magazine dedicated
to inspiring women
Who would have thought- Wanda K's daugher sharing the cover with President Obama and first lady Michelle
"I am my mother's LEGACY"
"My Black is Beautiful" national campagin ad model
"I am LEGACY"
The Wanda K Project was created in honor of Wanda K., a resilient mother who, by the age of 20, was the mother of two of her four children. Raised in a small town in Alabama. growing up during a time when education was not always prioritized. Wanda had limited education, and as a result, she faced many challenges that made everyday life harder.
As a single mother of four children, Wanda worked in underpaid and physically taxing jobs. Much of her work took place in harsh and unhealthy environments, including a local chicken plant. It is believed that prolonged exposure to these conditions contributed to her bout with asthma, an illness that would ultimately take her life at an early age. Like many single mothers facing economic hardship, Wanda lived in local housing projects where resources and opportunities were limited. Yet through every struggle, she carried the same hopes that many people in underserved communities hold today—the hope for better opportunities, support, and a brighter future for their children.
Wanda passed away but her story and spirit continue to inspire. The Wanda K Project was founded to honor her life by creating the very opportunities she did not have, providing underserved youth and communities with exposure, resources, and life-changing experiences that expand their vision of what is possible.
Through this work, Wanda’s legacy lives on—empowering the next generation to dream bigger, reach further, and believe that their circumstances do not define their future.
In Loving Memory of Wanda K
Our Empowerment Initiatives
Community Wellness Walk
Alexander City and the surrounding areas, there’s nothing like community support to keep you going. A walking group, a neighbor who joins you each Thursday, or inspiration from programs like this one can turn a simple habit into something uplifting. Community brings accountability, encouragement.
Hope to see you there! #Every Thursday 5:30pm at CACC.
Bring the whole family, kids are welcome! Let’s build healthy habits together, one step at a time.
Building healthy habits early
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DID YOU KNOW?
Just 20–30 minutes of walking most days can help lower blood pressure, strengthen the heart, and improve blood flow. Over time, it makes your heart more efficient and reduces the pressure on your arteries.
Ready to Begin Your Health Journey? Let’s Do This Together!
PERSONAL TRAINER & LINE DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Classes ONLY $5 (TUES & THURS)
"I’ve struggled with my own weight, and I know the power of having a team. Let’s take this journey together, motivate each other, and celebrate every win." - Lynn
@tommelynn
YOU CAN START NOW MOTIVATIONAL COACH
@ucanstartnow
"Destroy every narrative you created
for yourself and exceed the limits you
put on your potential". - Taminko
Mark Your Calendar!
Next Gen College & Career Leadership Expo
August 8th 2026 Time: 10- 3pm Location: Laurel Recenter | Alexander City, AL
This event was born from a deeply personal place. As a first-generation college student, I understand the uncertainty, fear, and lack of direction that many young people face when considering higher education. While I was fortunate enough to pursue a college education, I did not have a roadmap. My mother, whom I loved dearly, had limited educational opportunities and was unable to guide me through the college admissions process. Like many parents in our communities, she wanted the best for me but simply did not have the knowledge or resources to help me navigate that journey.
Today, there are countless students throughout Alexander City and the surrounding areas who dream of attending College or a University. Yet many of them do not know where to begin. They may not know how to apply, what scholarships are available, what programs fit their interests, or even whether college is truly within their reach. For some, the dream stops there, not because they lack ability, ambition, or potential, but because they lack access and exposure.
The Inaugural Expo is designed to change that.
By bringing colleges, universities, businesses, and community leaders together under one roof, we hope to provide students and families with direct access to the information, resources, and relationships that can transform aspirations into achievable goals. A single conversation with an admissions representative can give a student the confidence to apply. A brochure can become a roadmap. A connection can become an opportunity that changes the course of a young person's life.
Meet Our Featured Guest Speaker: CEO Shan
Get ready to be inspired by CEO Shan, founder of Simply Scents Candle Co. and a nationally recognized entrepreneur with more than 25 years of business experience.
Shan's journey is a powerful example of what determination, hard work, and faith can achieve. She began making candles in her grandmother's kitchen, then expanded to the front porch, the garage, and eventually her own warehouse. In the early days, she sold her products from the trunk of her car. Today, Simply Scents Candles has grown into a worldwide brand, proving that every successful business starts with a dream and the courage to keep going.
At the Next Gen College & Career Leadership Expo, Shan will share her inspiring story and practical advice on how you can turn an idea into a successful business. Whether you're interested in starting a business, building a career, or learning how to overcome obstacles, you won't want to miss this opportunity.
Shan's Inspiring Message:
"When I was growing up, Career Day usually meant hearing from a police officer or a firefighter. Today, I show up for my community so young people can see entrepreneurs who look like them and know they can build something great too."
Come hear firsthand how one woman's dream became an international business and discover your own journey.
🎉 Sign Up Early for Free Expo Giveaways!!
Walkins are welcome. However, if you register @ email info@wandakproject.org with the names and ages of everyone who will be attending to guarantee you get the Free Giveaways. If you don't register it' first come first serve for Giveaways.
This is a community event is designed to support a wide range of participants, including:
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Youth in 8th grade and above
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High school students exploring future opportunities
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Individuals seeking employment
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Adults looking to advance their careers
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Anyone interested in technical schools, colleges, workforce training, and community resources
Whether you're planning your education, searching for a job, or exploring new career pathways, this event offers valuable information, networking opportunities, and resources to help you succeed.
We invite your support as a Sponsor
Community Supporter – $250
• Recognition on social media
• Name listed on sponsorship banner
• Appreciation certificate
Leadership Sponsor – $500
• Logo placement on event banner and marketing materials
• Recognition during the event program
• Vendor booth space to showcase your business
• Social media spotlight feature
Premier Impact Sponsor – $1,000+
• Prominent logo placement on all event materials and signage
• Verbal recognition throughout the event
• Premium vendor booth location
• Opportunity to address attendees briefly during the program
• Featured recognition on social media and press materials
We welcome the support and involvement of our local business community! If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, setting up a vendor table, bringing your mobile business, or simply sharing your professional experience with the kids by speaking about your business, we would love to hear from you. Your participation helps create meaningful opportunities and lasting connections within our community. For more information about sponsorship opportunities or vendor participation, please email info@wandakproject.org. We greatly appreciate your support and look forward to partnering with you.
MEN'S CHURCH CHALLENGE
Gibraltar Lodge 173 and the Wanda K Project are challenging all men to join us at CACC every Thursday at 5:30 PM during the month of June.
Bring your men out to walk, support men’s mental health, and represent your church!
The church with the biggest turnout of men for the month will take home a $200 gift prize.
Let’s show the ladies how it’s done!
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Mental Health Awareness Month
Community Wellness Walk & Balloon Release
May 21st @ 5:30 pm CACC ( Community Walk Every Thursday) First 3 people win a FREE line dance class
We will begin our community walk with a special balloon release symbolizing hope, healing, and new beginnings. This meaningful moment will encourage participants to let go of anything that may be weighing them down or preventing them from becoming their best selves as we walk together in support of mental health awareness.
Following the balloon release, we will continue with our community walk to promote the importance of protecting and improving mental health through movement and connection. Walking has many positive benefits, including reducing stress, improving mood, boosting energy, and supporting emotional wellness.
Join us as we come together to raise awareness, encourage healing, and remind one another that mental health matters.
Legacy Museum Trip
A Day of Discovery
Trip Details
On April 24th, we are planning a special community trip for 28 participants total (including youth ages 10 and up and 6 adult chaperones) to visit the Legacy African American Museum in Montgomery, Alabama. This experience is designed to give our young people the opportunity to learn about the powerful history that shaped our nation and to better understand the resilience, courage, and contributions of those who came before them. Montgomery holds a sacred place in American history, especially in the story of the Civil Rights Movement. Our goal is for them to leave inspired, with a deeper sense of identity, pride, and understanding of how their history can influence their future and the positive impact they can make in the world.
Thank You to Our Breakfast Sponsor
We are incredibly grateful to Chick-fil-A for generously providing a delicious breakfast for our participants before our trip. Their kindness and support helped everyone start the day with a great meal and plenty of energy for the journey ahead.
Thank you, Chick-fil-A, for being a valued partner and for helping make this experience even more special for our participants!
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Meeting Location: Chick-fil-A (local meeting point)
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Arrival Time: 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM (breakfast will be provided)
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Departure Time: 9:00 AM (bus leaves promptly)
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Destination: Montgomery, Alabama
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Included: Breakfast, lunch, transportation, and museum admission
Who Should Attend
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Youth ages 10 and up
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Families and community members
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Volunteers interested in supporting and guiding youth
Thank You to Our Transportation Sponsor
We are incredibly grateful to Dobb Transportation for providing a wonderful travel experience for our participants. Their generosity, professionalism, and commitment to safe and comfortable transportation helped make our trip enjoyable from beginning to end.
Thank you, Dobb Transportation, for your valued partnership and for helping make this journey a memorable one!
Community Clean-up
We're Back!
Starting April 18, we’re bringing back our 3rd Saturday Community Clean-Up! We believe our mindset is everything, and the way we care for our community reflects how we feel about ourselves.
We invite churches, schools, local organizations, families, and young athletes to join us as we work together to uplift and take pride in our neighborhood.
Meet us there and be part of the change!
Young men showing up for their community
Men who show up to lead-
3rd Saturday each month
PROJECT LAUNCH- Summer Exposure Program
COMING SOON!
Project Launch is a transformative summer exposure program designed to give underserved youth the opportunity to explore careers in technology, science, and finance—fields where they have historically been underrepresented. Through immersive experiences, company visits, hands-on learning, and mentorship, students gain real-world insight into industries that shape our future.
This program is rooted in a powerful vision: to create a future where underserved youth have access to opportunities that expand their perspective and unlock their potential. By equipping students with the skills, confidence, and inspiration needed to succeed, Project Launch empowers them to become the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders in their communities.
Investing in these young people goes beyond individual growth—it is an investment in the future of our communities, our industries, and a more equitable and prosperous society. Project Launch helps students see beyond their current circumstances and recognize that their potential is not defined by their zip code.
We believe in a future where opportunity is not limited by geography, and where every young person has the exposure, support, and belief needed to lead.
MIA GORMAN | POET & ACTIVIST
Gorman made history as the youngest poet to read at a presidential inauguration in United States history, when her poem, "The Hills We Climb" catapulted her into international stardom. Raised by a single mother in Los Angeles, Gorman overcame speech and vocal impediments, crediting this challenge for her growth as a reader and writer.
Mia is a powerful example of what happens when a young person is seen, supported, and invested in.