ABOUT US

​The Rosa Walker Advancement Initiative is a nonprofit organization developed to address the holistic needs of the Asheville, North Carolina community through holistic programs that advance education, scholarship, mentoring, health care initiatives, social and economic growth and development. RWAI was founded by Rev. Brent La Prince Edwards, M.Div., and was named in the honor of the late Mrs. Rosa Walker, pioneer, city activist, and church member.

OUR VISION

The vison of the Rosa Walker Advancement Initiative is to strengthen, produce, and advance the quality of life for people in Asheville and Buncombe County. 

OUR MISSION

​The mission of the Rosa Walker Initiative is to enhance and promote educational excellence and character building skills through programs that will empower participants to become academically prepared and responsible citizens of society.

This mission will be achieved through a variety of programs including, but not limited to the following: 

1. Improve academic achievement as measured through tutorial programs 
2. Build core values and life skills that focus on respect, positive self-esteem, responsibility, conflict  resolution, diversity, health and wellness 
3. Mentoring Programs for at-risk youth and young adults 
4. Conducting workshops and programs for students, parents, and community members on subjects such as parenting, study skills, homework assistance, self-esteem
5. Establish and maintain a data base of information concerning the performance of program participants 
6. Establish and train volunteers to assist with the organization’s mission
7. Assist prospective students find scholarship, grants, and financial aid to pursue higher education ​

RWAI is affiliated with St. James A.M.E. Church - Asheville, NC

​HISTORY - ESTABLISHED IN 2013​

In 2013, Rev. Brent La Prince Edwards had the vision to establish an educational program that would be available to the church and the community at large. He envisioned a vibrant, full and active set of programs and activities throughout the entire building. The initial organization was named the 21st Century Foundation. It was incorporated in 2013. As the organization evolved, it was renamed in the honor of one of the stalwart members of St. James, Rosa Walker upon her death. Mrs. Walker's husband James, alongside Rev. Lacy T. Haith, assistant pastor, educator, and builder, constructed the Haith Educational Building. The Walker Fellowship Hall is named in his honor. The 21st Century Foundation was renamed the Rosa Walker Advancement Initiative and was Incorporated in 2016. The Initiative received its 501 (c) 3 status in December in 2018.​

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​BOARD MEMBERS