OUR MISSION

With the strength of community, Change Makers United, Inc. partners with families in need to provide educational and holistic wellness services that spark positive change in today’s youth.

OUR VISION

To drive sustainable change where every child and young adult is empowered to succeed and contribute to society.

OUR HISTORY

As an educator working in Title I schools, CMU’s founder observed a disconcerting pattern: many students and their families were disproportionately affected by the opportunity gap. In 2016, a small group of educators, mentors, and community advocates developed an action plan to provide services for students in Hampton Roads, focusing on educational advancement and holistic wellness.

Since its inception, CMU has combined internal resources with strong local partnerships to deliver annual initiatives that meet real needs in our community, including:

• School supply drives to equip students with the tools needed for academic success;
• Thanksgiving food drives to support families during the holiday season;
• Toy drives for youth who might otherwise go without;
• Winter clothing collections to ensure students have appropriate attire for cold weather.

*Title I schools are public schools with high percentages of children living in poverty. The “opportunity gap” refers to unequal access to resources and supports that influence students’ health, social–emotional well-being, and ability to receive a high-quality education.

Regional data consistently point to diet, fitness, and mental health as key contributors to health and wellness disparities in Hampton Roads. CMU responds directly to these needs so that the dreams and goals of our future leaders are not constrained by circumstances. While our initiatives are rooted in Hampton Roads, CMU also serves youth and families in Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., North Carolina, and New Jersey.

We are deeply grateful to the families who entrust CMU with their time and partnership. Families deserve access to high-quality resources—and through our programs, we aim for them to feel both supported and empowered. CMU consistently implements research-informed practices to drive lasting, systemic change.