The Onward & Upward Empowerment Foundation

The Onward and Upward Empowerment Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) organization which operates on the pillars of education, community, and benevolence. Our commitment to our community and other parts of the Dallas area is to enhance citizens’ economic, social, and political awareness.

There are four major campaigns that OUEF is involved in:

The Annual Kenn Manous Alpha Honors Scholarship Gala: The purpose of the gala is to recognize our annual high school scholarship recipients as well as recognize pillars of the community. We have given over $10,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area and provided a platform for community leaders to espouse upon their service in leadership during the gala. 

Alpha Scholars mentoring program: Through this program we engage with youth minority males between the ages of 12 and 18 with the intent of creating a greater understanding of what is required to be successful in today’s world. Some of our program topics include driving safety, higher education, budgeting, etiquette, social justice, voting and health. Lessons are organized in modules and presented to the students with discussion groups. Alpha Scholars has developed a partnership with The Sober Youth Inc. / Texas Knight Organization and a sponsorship with the Carrolton Colts team. 

Partnership with Karen’s Hands and Panera Bread: Karen’s Hands is a 501C3 organization that we partner with to aid families in need. Our organization picks up weekly donations for Panera Bread and delivers to the Karen’s Hands organization to assist with their week feeding of the homeless. Financial support is also provided to assist with the purchasing of supplies and product.  

The Mark Saunders Scholarship: The purpose of this scholarship is to aid with college students that may be experiencing challenges during their current semester. This scholarship is intended for student who are originally from the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.   Student may also apply if there are currently attending college in the area.