Donation From Leadership Montgomery Class Boosts Local Summer Camp
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WAKA) – A donation from Leadership Montgomery’s Class 41 is making a big impact at a local summer camp, providing students with new opportunities to learn and grow.
Strong Foundation, located in the former William “Kid” Franklin Boys and Girls Club, echoes with the sounds of laughter as children ages 6 to 16 engage in games and educational activities during summer camp.
“Strong Foundation is one of the best-kept secrets, I believe, in Montgomery,” said Terrence Jones, executive director of the nonprofit.
Leadership Montgomery’s Class 41 donated 10 new computers to the organization, enhancing the camp’s computer lab and expanding learning opportunities for campers.
“In the computer lab, those kids will be exposed to financial literacy, foundational math skills through games, ACT prep, artificial intelligence, and business leaders introducing them to the skills needed to stay competitive as they grow,” Jones said.
Shannon Ensley, team captain of Leadership Montgomery’s Class 41, said the group was inspired by the Strong Foundation’s ongoing dedication to West Montgomery youth.
“They are working with students from kindergarten and up and really show care and commitment,” Ensley said. “They build relationships with the kids throughout the school year and continue those relationships into the summer.”
Over the past 10 months, the seven-member team from Class 41 also tutored students at Southlawn Middle School, painted school bathrooms, and organized a free uniform closet.
“We went to the organizations we’ve worked with, including the Montgomery County Commission—every single member donated toward the computer lab,” Ensley said. “Spire Energy, Baptist Health, and the Southern Poverty Law Center also contributed. We were able to raise $10,000 for brand-new computers.”
Strong Foundation plans to expand the use of the computers beyond summer camp.
“We’d like to offer computer lessons to senior citizens and expand into adult financial literacy courses,” Jones said. “It’s just a huge blessing to have this resource.”
Xavier Simpson, a 10th-grade camper, said the mentorship and support he receives at the foundation have helped shape his outlook.
“They teach me patience, how to be a proper man, and to represent God, my family, my city and my church,” Simpson said. “They care and keep me on the right path. I’ve made tons of friends—everyone here has their own gifts.”
Strong Foundation partnered with the Montgomery Housing Authority to ensure children who couldn’t access other summer camps in the area had a safe, enriching place to go.
“We create a safe environment where kids can be challenged academically, have fun, and feel encouraged,” Jones said. “There are so many things they could get into during the summer—this is a space where they can just be kids.”
“This camp shows you that you’re not alone,” Simpson said. “You don’t have to go through every trial and tribulation by yourself. You’ve not only got God, but this is like your family as well.”
Strong Foundation opened four years ago following a $1 million building renovation. For more information or to donate or volunteer, visit strongfoundationmgm.com.
