About us
The organization is dedicated to mentoring young people in areas such as academics, counseling, sports—including basketball, baseball, track and field, and football—and essential life skills.
Our primary focus is to support at-risk youth in Maricopa County by helping them envision success and take actionable steps toward achieving it. We strive to empower them fully, equipping them to rise above challenges and resist discouragement. Through our program, they will develop the skills to lead, build confidence, and embrace positive choices.
With a strong foundation in life skills and empowerment, they’ll be prepared for success in both employment and higher education. Ultimately, our goal is for every program participant to become a productive, contributing member of society.
OUR VISION
START SOMETHING AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SOMEONE'S LIFE TODAY!
OUR MISSION
We aim to ensure that at-risk youth in Maricopa County have abundant opportunities and access to essential resources for success in both education and life. Our organization is dedicated to providing mentoring support to youth across a variety of pursuits and interests, helping them build a foundation for a bright future. Our goal is to change lives and set a positive example, showing young people that, even when the path is challenging, perseverance and hard work will make the journey worthwhile.
Founder
Lawrence Trice Jr.
Professional Athlete/Professional Trainer/Sports Nutritional Educator/Mental Performance Preparation Coach
Lawrence Trice Jr. is a highly accomplished individual, holding degrees in Exercise & Wellness and Sociology, as well as a Master’s in Post-secondary & Higher Education. His academic background in health and education reflects a profound understanding of human development—physically, personally, and academically. Yet, it is his journey as a professional sprinter that truly exemplifies his resilience and dedication to overcoming challenges.
Lawrence’s athletic career is a powerful story of perseverance. Despite facing numerous career-threatening injuries, including two torn hamstrings, an LCL tear, abdominal surgery, a groin tear, and a hernia, he never gave up. Through relentless determination, he made a remarkable comeback to the track—a feat few could envision. Before his injuries, Lawrence was world-ranked in the 60m and 100m sprints, and he continues to hold top-five marks at Arizona State University along with longstanding records at AAG Sports Academy.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Lawrence’s influence reaches into advocacy and mentorship. As a spokesperson for organizations such as Agape Christian, Diamonds in the Rough International, Oxygen 4 Energy, and Mir'Ra IMAGE, he uses his platform to inspire others, sharing his story of resilience and commitment to well-being. He has appeared in commercials for Blue Cross and other brands, where he highlights the importance of health, overcoming adversity, and pursuing one’s dreams.
Lawrence’s experiences have shaped him into more than just an athlete; they have made him a mentor, leader, and role model. He collaborates with schools, organizations, and young athletes, showing them the transformative power of hard work and resilience. He doesn’t just push himself to achieve his best—he empowers others to realize their potential and motivates them to pursue it wholeheartedly.
What truly sets Lawrence apart is his holistic approach to coaching and mentorship. His deep understanding of athletic performance, personal growth, and academic success makes him an inspiring figure. Whether he is coaching athletes, advising clients, or addressing audiences, Lawrence instills a mindset of perseverance and grit—qualities essential for success in all areas of life.
For anyone seeking a coach, mentor, or leader who exemplifies strength, resilience, and the ability to inspire others to overcome challenges, Lawrence Trice Jr. is the person you want by your side, driving you to reach your full potential.
Manager of Operations
Shakeia Pinnick
Professional Athlete, Motivational Speaker, Author,Professional Trainer and Life Coach
Shakeia Pinnick holds both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in Family & Human Development from Arizona State University, where her academic journey reflects a deep dedication to supporting youth, especially adopted children like herself. Motivated by her own experiences, Shakeia’s mission is to empower others, particularly those facing similar challenges, to thrive and reach their potential.
Athletically, Shakeia is a four-time All-American and 2013 PAC-12 champion at Arizona State University. She earned top-three finishes in the NCAA indoor and outdoor championships in the heptathlon and holds multiple top 10 records in Arizona State’s history, including the 400m hurdles. Her elite versatility led her to compete in both the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Trials, excelling in the multi-events and hurdles.
Over her 8+ years as a coach, Shakeia has worked across California, Illinois, and Arizona, mentoring athletes from youth to professional levels. Her guidance has helped numerous athletes achieve personal bests and secure top state and national rankings, a testament to her skill in nurturing athletic success. Currently, she coaches at Mesa College, contributing to the NJCAA program's growth while fostering athletes' life skills and academic excellence.
Professionally, Shakeia competes as a 400m hurdler and occasionally as a heptathlete. Her athletic journey began shortly after her adoption at age nine; by ten, she was competing in club track, and she continued as part of the Aurora Flyers Track Club through high school. Competing in various USA Track & Field and AAU Junior Olympic Championships, she earned titles and set records, demonstrating the discipline and responsibility that now drive her to guide the next generation.
Beyond the track, Shakeia is a motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur, and mentor. Her book, *Keeping It R.E.A.L.*, empowers readers with messages of resilience and self-belief. Her life as an adoptee taught her the value of opportunity and gratitude, and she now channels her experiences to inspire others to reach their potential. Through her multifaceted career and commitment to giving back, Shakeia creates a lasting impact in every life she touches.
Director of Operations
Kiandre Whitmore
Counselor with Department of corrections/ Behavior coach/Ambassador for Las Vegas Raiders
Kiandre graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Sociology, where he cultivated his leadership, negotiation, and coaching skills. Despite his young age, he has already made a significant impact, playing a pivotal role in the lives of athletes and business professionals alike. Kiandre has been instrumental in successfully negotiating contracts and deals for numerous clients, ranging from elite athletes, NFL players to professional. His expertise goes beyond contracts—he provides these athletes with essential resources, mentoring, and top-tier training that has helped them elevate their performance and maintain their competitive edge at the highest levels.
Kiandre’s ability to guide and support others stems from his own experiences growing up in Los Angeles, a city known for its challenges with gang violence. Confronting adversity at a young age, Kiandre made a conscious decision to turn his life around and use his story to inspire others. His transformation from a young man surrounded by negative influences to a mentor and role model highlights his remarkable resilience. Kiandre’s upbringing has given him a unique perspective, enabling him to connect deeply with both youth and peers who may be struggling in similar environments.
His leadership and empathy have made him a trusted figure among his peers, offering invaluable insights in areas where many lacked support or guidance during their formative years. What sets Kiandre apart is not just his ability to mentor and coach, but his commitment to helping others overcome the same struggles he once faced. His dedication to uplifting those around him—whether through athletic development, life coaching, or professional support—makes him a powerful and influential mentor, known for inspiring real change in those who follow his guidance.
Kiandre’s journey from adversity to success serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of giving back, qualities that make him a standout leader, coach, and mentor in any field.
Founder- Roberto F. Archibold
Co-Founder- Jestin Blackmon