As kids in Delaware prepare to head back to school, some community members want to ensure they have everything they need for a successful start to the year.
That’s when someone like Alexandria Ferrell steps in.
As the founder and creator of the nonprofit One Step at a Time Foundation, Ferrell works to serve her community through outreach efforts. The foundation, which started in Wilmington last year, has a mission to empower, improve and provide resources to enhance the social determinants of youth and families in Delaware.
On Saturday, the foundation held a back-to-school supplies drive with minority-owned business Rheal Urban and a host of other organizations. It took place at the Best Night Inn in New Castle.
The groups collaborated to give out 150 backpacks and school supplies to those in need.
“It is our mission and our passion to give back to kids, especially kids who we see who are at risk,” Ferrell said. “The main thing we’re trying to do is unlock these kids’ full potential.”
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‘Everyone has just been doing their part‘
Kevin Potts Jr., who co-founded One Step at a Time, said events like this are big for bringing the community together.
“The power of collaboration is crazy. We have big donations from Staples, Walmart and other organizations. Everyone has just been doing their part,” Potts Jr. said.
Ferrell’s uncle, Wayne Marshall, also pitched in.
While preparing to grill hamburgers and hot dogs for everyone, Marshall explained that the event was “totally needed” for the community.
“The kids in the area need something like this because times are just really tough nowadays, so giving people a positive outlook is advantageous,” Marshall said.
Plans for the One Step at a Time nonprofit
The foundation plans to continue to put on community events like the back-to-school drive, such as food and clothing drives.
Ferrell and Potts both said they’re excited for the future of One Step at a Time.
“We’re trying to expand — our biggest goal is self-sufficiency, people and housing,” Ferrell said. “And we plan on getting there one step at a time.”
To learn more about the One Step at a Time Foundation or to donate to the nonprofit, visit onestepatatimefoundation.com.
Contact local reporter Cameron Goodnight at cgoodnight@delawareonline.com, or by calling or texting 302-324-2208. Follow him on Twitter at @CamGoodnight.
