The Legacy Campaign
Help Launch the Cardell C. Patillo Leadership Academy

Honor the legacy. Invest in what’s next.

An educator who recognized your potential. A mentor who kept showing up. Someone who opened a door before you knew what was on the other side.

Their investment became part of your story.

Now, we have an opportunity to make that same investment in the next generation.

Rooted in Portsmouth. Built for the future.

Born and raised in Portsmouth, Dr. Cardell C. Patillo has devoted his work in education, ministry, and community service to helping young people see possibilities for their lives—and find the support to pursue them.

The Cardell C. Patillo Leadership Academy will carry that commitment forward through a structured, year-round mentorship and leadership program.

Led through Mile High Kids & Community Development, Inc., the Academy’s first-year plan brings together 50 young people and 10 mentors in Portsmouth.

Our vision is a community where young people are known, encouraged, challenged, and prepared to lead.

What we are building

• Mentorship & Belonging: Consistent relationships with caring adults who offer guidance, encouragement, and accountability.

• Leadership & Service: Opportunities for young people to develop their voices, practice responsibility, and contribute to their community.

• Career & College Exploration: Experiences that introduce new possibilities and help participants connect their interests to future opportunities.

• Life Skills & Financial Literacy: Practical learning that strengthens decision-making, confidence, and preparation for independence.

The proposed program also includes participation support, food and snacks, curriculum, and quarterly field trips to help young people engage in the experience.

Our founding goal: $50,000

We are raising $50,000 toward the Academy’s $158,000 first-year operating budget.

This founding investment will help establish the first cohort and begin putting the people, resources, and programming in place. Additional fundraising, grants, and partnerships will be needed to complete the first-year funding.

Become a Founding Supporter

Give $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500, or an amount meaningful to you.

For those ready to make a larger commitment, a $6,000 sponsorship supports one mentor’s proposed stipend for a full year. Monthly giving offers another way to help sustain the work.

You can also give in honor of an educator, mentor, or loved one whose belief in you changed your life.

The educators we honor opened doors for generations. Together, we can open the next one.

Cardell C. Patillo Leadership Academy Launch

Honor the Legacy. Invest in whats next.

Team Leaderboard

Team Members