It seems like just yesterday Tameka Raymond mourned the loss of her son Kile, but through the support of her friends and family, she has launched an amazing effort to celebrate his life. I had a chance to chat with her last week about her foundation and I am really impressed. Founded in 2013 Kile’s World Foundation has a mission of gifting children with endless possibilities of creative endeavors through applied, fine and performing arts.
BCG: “What inspired you to get started with Kile’s World?”
Tameka Raymond: I started the foundation in honor of my son who passed away almost two years ago. I wanted to do something to honor his legacy and help other children.
I can tell from talking to Tameka that this foundation means the world to her, she is giving it all she has and the plans for the future are bright. Like many nonprofit leaders, she too has felt the burdens that running a nonprofit can come with.
BCG: Has running a foundation been harder than you thought it would be?
Tameka Raymond: “It’s been a learning curve. I’m learning everyday, it has been very hard to get the funding in, but it’s a rewarding experience.”
Kile’s World Foundation intends to offer comprehensive art education to children ranging from ages 10‐17; focusing on music, performance, fine and applied arts. The Foundation offers art-based camps with multiple workshops including general instruction in the areas of acting, singing, dance, painting, illustration, music production and digital media.
BCG: What is your greatest hope for Kile’s World Foundation, what’s your vision?
Tameka Raymond::The ultimate goal for the foundation is to open a performing arts school for youth. Private education that focuses on arts but has a strong academic base to help students succeed.The foundation wishes to cultivate an environment where developing artists can explore their artistic interests with the guidance and support of our mentors. Kile’s World Foundation is poised to eventually open a charter school with an emphasis on music and the arts.
Now to celebrate the Kile’s World Foundation first anniversary the foundation is hosting it’s second 5K this Saturday, March 29th in Atlanta, GA! Tameka told me it’s going to be tons of fun, her goal is that this walk will one day rival the Black Family Reunion, and be a day where families and the community all come together for a great cause. All are invited to come out and run or walk with the team. During and after the race there will be all sorts of family friendly activities. Kangazoom will be providing all of the bouncy fun with jumpers and more. Click here to register now, pre-registration is just $35 and includes a T-shirt and BCG will be in the building! To learn more about Kile’s World Foundation including the upcoming summer camp visit kilesworldfoundation.org!
