Changing lives, one "Act" at a time.
Building stronger communities through education and resources.
G.A.K. Foundation Objectives
Increasing Social Awareness
The G.A.K. Foundation is committed to providing resources to students living in marginalized communities - worldwide. Together we can make a positive impact.
Promoting Education
Education is the key to a brighter future. Shared learning through "Experiential Experiences" can be life changing for everyone involved. Travel opportunities provide an incredible teaching platform. These experiences can be transforming.
Building Partnerships
The G.A.K. team is busy forming Global and Domestic partnerships to create the best possible outcomes for the foundation initiatives. We can't do this work alone. Please join us in the effort.
Leadership Development
The American Youth Cohort will complete a year of training to participate in an "Experiential Learning Experience". This team is responsible for developing the "teaching lesson". These Ambassadors also work closely with the Board to research and identify the next Global Act.
Fundraising
Raising funds for the organization is critical component to the work of the foundation. Through special events, crowd funding and the personal contributions of Board members and donors we have been able to fund the "Canteen Project". The Board and the American Youth Cohort actively seek out grants and corporate funding for current and future G.A.K. initiatives.
About the G.A.K. Foundation
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors: Founder and Executive Director, Dr. Elanza Pitre-Wilson; Director and Secretary, Kendria Russell; Director of Finance, Veronica Bowdry and Chief Operations Officer, Carolyn Hooper.
American Youth Cohort
GAK is empowering our youth to lead in this effort of CHANGE. Our chosen Ambassadors participate in local and global "Acts of Kindness" through project planning, research and fundraising. The cohort completes a year of training and community service projects before embarking on an international travel experience.
Act 1, The "Canteen Project"
The 1st "Act of Kindness" is the Canteen project. The Ampenyi M/A Basic School, located in a small village in West Africa needed a place for students to eat. With the help of a few donors and the generosity of our board members the building was constructed.
The Life Changing Lesson
Our team is visiting Ghana in July of 2026. The American Youth Cohort have been challenged to develop a "Life Changing Lesson" for students they will meet at the Ampenyi M/A Basic School. This learning experience is designed to impact everyone involved in the experience.
Local Acts
The American Youth Cohort actively engage in local "Acts" of kindness to improve the lives of people in their local communities. Our Ambassadors also participate in fundraising events to contribute to the organization's mission.
Teachers on Assignment
The foundation was developed shortly after a group of teachers visited Ghana in July 2024. The trip was curated through UPRISE Travel which included a visit to a local village school in Elmina. The Founder thought it would be fun to teach a Marketing lesson. It was a life changing lesson for Dr. Wilson. The G.A.K. Foundation was birthed four months later.
The Canteen Project is Complete
Welcome to the " Akyedze Center"
The GAK Foundation is thrilled to announce the completion of the building at the Ampenyi Basic School. In naming the building, searched for a name befitting of the project. The word "gift" came to mind. "Akyedze" in Fante means, supplied by grace and shared in unity. What began as a place for students to eat inside is now a multi-purpose building that can be used by the community. Shortly after the project began we learned how this effort would soon bless this community through employment opportunities. We are pleased to have partnered with the school and this local community. The entire project took less than 7 months to complete. The building can accommodate 90% of the school's population. It has ceiling fans, tiled flooring, a handwashing station, and tables and chairs for seating. Students will occupy the building for the first time in September 2025.
Support Our Cause and Make a Difference
Your generous donations help us provide essential resources and support to those in need.Every contribution counts, no matter the size. Together, we can change lives! https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/RJ37RYXNTXL78