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In 2009, at just 19 years old, Bianca Crawford laid the foundation for what would become Motivated and Empowered Inc., signaling the start of a remarkable journey dedicated to uplifting and transforming the lives of vulnerable youth in our communities

At the Age of 19

In 2009, a determined young woman named Bianca Crawford laid the groundwork for what would become Motivated and Empowered Inc. (then known as Open Minds, Open Hearts). Inspired by her own challenges, she dedicated her vision to supporting girls who faced experiences similar to hers, offering them a path to empowerment and hope.

2012

Nashville, TN – The very first program group launched within Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) at McKissak Middle School, serving 35 girls who struggled with gang involvement, violence, and academic risk factors.

2013

Building on this success, the program expanded to reach over 150 girls across McKissak Middle School, Pearl Cohn High School, and McGavock High School through a partnership with the Oasis Center. From this cohort, 25 girls graduated from the PEARL Academy—a staple program designed to nurture self-confidence, life skills, and leadership. During this pivotal year, Ms. Crawford and her husband David adopted one of the participants, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the youth they served.

2014

With a heart for higher education, Ms. Crawford successfully helped five girls enroll in college through grant writing, fundraising, and her personal contributions, proving that strategic support and unwavering mentorship can truly change the trajectory of a young person’s life.

2018

Open Minds, Open Hearts evolved into Motivated and Empowered Inc., extending its reach to Cleveland, OH. Through collaborations with MyCom, South Euclid-Lyndhurst School District, and Maple School District, Motivated and Empowered Inc. served 192 youth—empowering them with educational programs, mentorship, and life skill workshops. Also in 2018, the very first Empower Me Conference took place at the South Euclid-Lyndhurst Library, hosting 25 girls, 25 women, and an array of inspiring guest speakers.

2020
Motivated and Empowered Inc. opened Cleveland’s first all-girls youth center, boasting resources like educational camps, hair styling services, hot meals, and more. Although the COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of the physical space, the mission continued uninterrupted. School-based services, basic needs distribution, mentorship, and mental health support touched over 1,200 youth, with over $25k in essential items provided to the community.

2023
The organization expanded to Atlanta, GA, focusing services in the West End neighborhood. This strategic growth allowed Motivated and Empowered Inc. to reach even more families and youth through innovative programs tailored to local needs.

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2024
In a landmark achievement, Motivated and Empowered Inc. hosted the largest all-girls conference for Black and Brown girls at the Cleveland Browns Stadium, drawing over 400 girls, 25 dynamic speakers, and 12 community partners. Simultaneously, the first annual boys conference, titled “There’s More 2 Me”, brought together 198 Black boys for a transformative three-day event, marking a critical step toward inclusive youth empowerment. We launched in Dallas, Tx. Allowing Motivated and Empowered Inc to serve 4 states. 

2025

Looking to the future, Motivated and Empowered Inc. is set to open a state-of-the-art Home for Me—a nurturing environment designed to support youth who need safe, stable housing. During the same year, the organization will welcome students to ME Academy, a visionary charter school focused on holistic education and personal growth.

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Today...

Motivated and Empowered Inc. remains firmly rooted in its mission to inspire transformation, deliver hope, and guide young people toward fulfilling lives. Through ever-expanding programs, community collaborations, and unwavering dedication, the work continues—one empowered youth at a time.

For more information on how you can get involved or support our efforts, contact us today at 440.703.0987

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Your support is helping children & families thrive!

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