About

A MESSAGE FROM OUR FOUNDER

I grew up in the same communities we now serve. GRAB was created because every child deserves access to education, opportunity, and people who believe in them. Our mission is simple: equip youth, empower families, and elevate communities.

— Chauntia Gilchrist
Founder & Executive Director

Our Story

G-R-A-B was built from real experience and a deep understanding of what many youth face every day.

What started as a vision to support young people has grown into a structured approach focused on education, life skills, leadership, and long-term success.

We exist because too many students have the potential to succeed but lack the structure, guidance, and consistent support to get there.

Mission

To equip youth and families with the education, support, leadership development, and opportunities needed to build successful futures.

Vision

A future where every child has access to the education, support, and opportunities needed to reach their full potential.

Core Promise

We empower youth and families through a holistic approach that combines education, leadership development, life skills, emotional well-being, and community support.

Our Holistic Approach

At GRAB, we believe student success extends beyond academics. Our approach focuses on developing the whole child by supporting educational growth, emotional well-being, leadership development, life skills, family engagement, and community connection.

We are committed to helping young people build confidence, resilience, purpose, and the skills needed to succeed in school and in life.

Why It Matters

The Challenge
Many students face academic barriers, limited resources, and a lack of access to opportunities that help them reach their full potential.

Our Response
GRAB provides educational support, leadership development, family engagement, and community resources that help youth succeed in school and life.

Where We Are Going

GRAB is working toward the long-term vision of establishing GRAB Academy, a school dedicated to helping students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Leadership

Founded by a Durham native with firsthand understanding of the challenges many youth face, GRAB was built to turn experience into opportunity.

GRAB is led by hands-on leadership committed to building real pathways for youth and families through structure, consistency, and long-term vision.

The Outcome

Success is not just a goal — it is the expectation.

GRAB is focused on building pathways that lead to real results, including academic achievement, personal growth, and long-term success.