A PLACE WHERE POSSIBILITIES EXIST
lighting
A SPARK
At A Better World, we believe that every child deserves a chance to succeed. As a nonprofit organization, we focus on supporting children in at-risk communities by addressing both their health and academic needs. We understand that many students face challenges that go beyond the classroom, which is why our approach is holistic, combining literacy support with trauma-informed care and evidence-based strategies. Our work is deeply rooted in the community. We collaborate closely with families, local organizations, and volunteers to create a network of support around each child. Together, we help break down the barriers that prevent students from reaching their full potential, ensuring they have the tools, resources, and encouragement they need to thrive. At A Better World, we’re not just about improving grades—we’re about creating a future where every child can grow, learn, and become the best version of themselves.
A Better World Was Founded in 2001
by Pastor Ken Gilliard and Forest Hill Church, who identified the need for a positive, educational, after-school program in West Charlotte. When A Better World began, it served eight students two days a week. Thanks to the tireless work of Pastor Ken and his team, the program now serves approximately seventy students five days a week. The kids who stick with A Better World are, at the very least, guaranteed a positive experience and quite possibly one that will change their lives.
A Better World works diligently to improve the health and academic outcomes of youth on Charlotte’s west side. A demographic whose academic performance is negatively impacted by poor socio-economic conditions, these youth have a higher risk of academic failure, stress-related disease, and criminal justice system involvement. Through progressive programming that centers whole-child development, we are actively contributing to the future upward mobility of underserved youth as we empower them to break the cycle of generational poverty.
Founded in 2001 by concerned and civic-minded community members, A Better World was established to address the need for positive, holistic, and educational programming in West Charlotte. Impacted by drugs, gun violence, and crime for over 4 decades, the city’s west side was home to hundreds of children who could benefit from A Better World’s programming. At our inception, we served only 8 children 2 days a week. Now, through the dedicated work of Kenneth Gilliard and his team, A Better World presently serves 75 children 5 days a week.
Each day, our students receive a hot meal, homework support, and small group instruction from teachers who are committed to their well-being. Twice a week, students participate in group therapy sessions with licensed instructors and engage in literacy lessons via i-Ready, an evidence-based education tool. On a weekly basis, A Better World’s students partake in expansive extracurricular activities and their parents gain access to our community pantry where those in need receive a 7-day supply of groceries. Parents are also invited to attend our community workshops where they learn how to best support their children’s success in the classroom and at home.
Transforming lives for over 25 years, we are confident in our holistic approach, and with our guidance, our peers have employed similar models in their respective organizations. We are proud to share that as adults, A Better World’s students have achieved remarkable feats. Many have returned as donors, volunteers, and dedicated board members. They are proof that with the assistance of a passionate village, every child has a chance at a positive life trajectory. Please join us in creating a future abundant in opportunity for West Charlotte youth.
