We Are The Teachers, Inc.

We Are The Teachers", W. A. T. T. began as the dream of Brian "Lee-Lee" Lewis who grew up in Keystone, WV. Like many adults who faced some hard times and made some bad decisions, Lee-Lee wanted to use his "school of hard knocks" education to give back to the community and possible prevent one child from going through some of the difficulties that he had experienced.

In October 2016, he asked Carlotta Young, a former member of the famed Northfork High School Demons women's basketball team and community and youth advocate, to assist him with putting together a youth basketball team. They realized that many of the kids were skilled ball players but lacked the discipline necessary to succeed off the court. Both stepped up to the challenge to use this as an opportunity to teach some life lessons and skills such as teamwork, sportsmanship, commitment, and discipline. Lee-Lee said the group should be called "We Are The Teachers". He knew that kids may not remember what you said, but they will always remember the examples they see. He felt that as adults there was an opportunity to influence and teach kids some basic life skills that would change how they saw the world.

Unfortunately, Brian "Lee-Lee" Lewis never got to see his dream come to full fruition. On January 24, 2017, he was killed in a shooting. On that day, the community lost a kind, caring heart. However, those that believed in his dream were determined to keep going. Carlotta Young continued with the youth basketball team and through her efforts she has gotten the community rallied around taking W. A.T. T. to the next level

W. A. T. T.'s leadership is made up of individuals who have a McDowell County connection and are committed to making a difference in the lives of McDowell County children.

 

Mission Statement: To provide a safe learning environment for at risk children in McDowell County, 5-18 years old. Focusing on building self-confidence, strengthening academics, developing social skills, and fostering community awareness.

Vision Statement: We will develop children that have a zest for learning and when faced with life obstacles will possess the necessary tools to be successful contributors to their families, community, and the world around them.

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Motto: Changing the world, one child at a time.

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