VISION
To assist in empowering Christian oriented organizations to impact the lives of youth and others through Christ, while maintaining financial growth on principal assets to ensure sustainability.
MISSION
To utilize God’s blessings to Watkins by wisely giving to Christian based organizations that are advancing His Kingdom in varying ways.
Table of Contents
Message from Leadership
From where we stand…
In 2024, we focused on responding to the needs of the moment while laying the groundwork for the future. The Watkins Christian Foundation has long prioritized impact over recognition, quietly supporting ministries and missions with a commitment to supporting Christian faith-based giving that remains strong.
Each generation must remain faithful to Bill Watkins’ original intent, while also discerning how that faithfulness is expressed in its own time. For us, that has meant strengthening stewardship, deepening relationships, and inviting the next generation into leadership. Along the way, we’ve improved internal systems and engaged more intentionally with our grantees to better understand and support their work.
That’s why, this 2024 Year in Review highlights more than just initiatives—the stories within show how thoughtful investment can spark meaningful and lasting change.
Faithful stewardship today requires trust, shared responsibility, and openness to new voices across generations. As we continue to explore what long-term faithfulness looks like for WCF, we do so with confidence in the next generation of leaders who will work alongside us to carry this mission and Bill Watkins’ legacy forward.
GEORGE WATKINS
Board Chair
MICHAEL WATKINS
President
Message from the NextGen Advisory Committee
Shaping Legacy: Honoring the past, inspiring growth, and expanding impact
TAYLOR WATKINS
ASHLEY WATKINS
PAGE WATKINS
LEGACY IS NOT GIVEN—IT’S BUILT
Legacy isn’t merely something you inherit. It’s something you create, live, and shape every single day. For us, the Watkins Christian Foundation (WCF) isn’t just a name on a letterhead; it’s the quiet, steadfast presence woven through every season of our lives.
We grew up witnessing the foundation’s subtle but profound influence. We saw impact in thoughtful decisions, humble deeds, and sincere, spirited conversations. In our family, conviction was never demonstrated with grand gestures but embodied daily through faithfulness and consistent effort.
EMBRACING OUR PLACE AT THE TABLE
As the next generation, we each have come to the table—to listen, to learn, to serve, and to help shape the future. The WCF’s mission, anchored in Christian humility and generosity, is unshakable. But real legacy is never static; it’s a living force, evolving with every generation’s experiences and vision.
Our values—humility, faith, and service—remain constant, even as our methods, investments, and strategies adapt to new challenges. This balance of enduring principles and fresh approaches ensures that our mission remains relevant, resilient, and far-reaching.
TRANSFORMATION THROUGH PARTNERSHIP
This Year in Review isn’t just a summary of initiatives. It’s a testament to evolution and transformation. The stories we share don’t simply measure impact—they show what happens when investment becomes the spark for genuine change.
Many organizations we support have become engines of transformation. Some are now led by individuals who once benefited from our programs. That’s legacy in action—a living, breathing cycle of hope and opportunity.
RENEWING PURPOSE, EXPANDING IMPACT
We’re not here to reinvent the wheel, but to continue the journey with renewed energy and a deeper sense of purpose. WCF is more than a source of giving—it’s a springboard for growth, resilience, and sustainable change.
Our vision? A future where our partners are equipped and empowered to lead, innovate, and sustain lasting impact. This is the virtuous cycle of service we believe in and strive to nurture.
HONORING WHAT MATTERS MOST
To honor the foundation’s spirit, we remain faithful to its core values while expanding its reach. Our commitment is clear: ensuring the WCF’s mission thrives—not just for us, but for generations to come.
Gathering in Faith
Reflections from the Regional Grantee Meeting in Lakeland
ROZITA LA GORCE
Executive Director
In December 2024, the Watkins Christian Foundation hosted its regional grantee meeting in Lakeland, Florida—a gathering that embodied the spirit of our annual theme: Together in Faith—Serving, Sharing, Growing. This event brought together grantees from across the region for a day of connection, reflection, and renewal.
The meeting was designed to foster meaningful dialogue and strengthen relationships among those faithfully advancing God’s Kingdom through their work. It provided a space to listen, learn, and grow together—grounded in the Foundation’s commitment to Bill Watkins’ original vision and the belief that each generation must carry that mission forward with clarity and courage.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in sessions focused on organizational capacity, sustainability, and peer collaboration. Guided by reflective prompts, grantees were encouraged to share program successes, identify team strengths, and discuss challenges they are navigating. These conversations revealed not only the depth of commitment across our network, but also the shared desire to serve with integrity and purpose.
This gathering was important because it reminded us that faithful stewardship is not a solitary journey—it is a shared calling. By creating space for honest exchange and mutual encouragement, we continue to build a community of leaders who are equipped to serve, share, and grow in faith.
As we look ahead, we remain grateful for the stories, questions, and vision each grantee brings to this work. Together, we are advancing a mission rooted in trust, accountability, and Spirit-led impact.
I wanted to thank you again for having me at the meeting in Tampa with all the FL grantees. It was inspiring and educational and a gift to meet others from like minded organizations that are being supported. There are some great efforts to care for people and their hearts and I felt blessed to be in that great company of folks. I was extremely encouraged for Young Life’s Southwind Camp as our mission fits as a great partner with the Watkins Christian Foundation qualifications.
ELIZABETH MCCRAE
YOUNG LIFE, SOUTHWINDS CAMP
Thank you for preparing and leading an excellent workshop yesterday! It … created a great sense of community among the foundation’s grantees. It will help each of us think strategically and prayerfully as we follow Gods lead in the ministries he is calling us to serve in.
UNKNOWN
I have spent most of the day reviewing my notes and the last three years in review. I like Proverbs 11:14 on page 25 of 2023. “Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety!” The logic model will help us when we are applying for grants and sharing the vision of the mission with someone over coffee.
ROBERT TOLLEY
YOUNG LIFE TAMPA
I felt like the meeting was very informative and useful for every grantee.
JACK UNDERWOOD
CEDARBROOK OUTREACH
Education
Lessons in Who We Are
Stories of learning as a path to transformation, belonging, identity, and empowerment through education.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
ROMANS 12:2 (NIV)
From Quiet to Called:
Mikayla’s Path to Purpose
“Attending Hope for the past six years has had an impact on my life that I will forever be thankful for.”
MIKAYLA, 2024 HOPE ACADEMY GRADUATE
When Mikayla arrived at Hope Academy in seventh grade, she was quiet and unsure. But she found more than academic rigor—she found a Christ-centered community that believed in her and held her to high expectations.
Her mother saw the change: “I’ve seen improvement in my daughter in all aspects of her life—just a 180 as far as a student and a daughter.”
Through strong relationships, spiritual growth, and a culture of grace and accountability, Mikayla flourished—discovering her identity as a student, and a valued community member.
By high school, she stepped into leadership and served as a teaching assistant in a kindergarten class, sparking a passion for education.
Now, she’s studying Elementary Education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison on a full-ride scholarship. Her journey reflects Hope Academy’s mission: equipping servant leaders who live with purpose, integrity, and hope.
MAGGIE NIEMEYER
ASSOCIATE ADVANCEMENT OFFICER
HOPE ACADEMY
Excellence Recognized:
Cornerstone Christian Academy Earns Top Workplace Honors for the Fourth Time in Five Years
“Cornerstone is a place like no other. The culture and environment truly make others feel known and celebrated. I love coming to my job every day.”
TEACHER AT CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
Each year, countless organizations compete to be named a Top Workplace by the Atlanta JournalConstitution. In 2025, Cornerstone Christian Academy was named a Top Workplace by the *Atlanta JournalConstitution*—its fourth recognition in five years. Uniquely, it was one of only three overall winners by size and the only organization to earn two major awards in one cycle.
This honor, based solely on anonymous employee feedback, highlights the school’s culture and commitment to caring for its staff. Faculty and staff are seen as ministers, investing in students and each other daily.
From full insurance coverage for full-time staff to tuition assistance for their children, Cornerstone models biblical stewardship and community. It’s more than a workplace—it’s a spiritual family on mission.
Cornerstone continues to invest in its educators, believing that when teachers thrive, students flourish. This award reflects more than workplace excellence— it’s a testament to a mission grounded in discipleship, love, and academic distinction.
COLIN CREEL
HEADMASTER
CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
Igniting Belonging:
Brookwood’s Return to Tradition and Community
“The tradition brought our entire community together—giving younger students a joyful sense of belonging, and older students the chance to lead with pride and purpose.”
KELLY CAMPBELL, DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT, BROOKWOOD SCHOOL
At the heart of Brookwood School’s vibrant tradition lies the annual Homecoming Burning of the B. A senior carries a flame and lights the iconic “B” — a signal that unites generations in pride, belonging, and leadership.
Every year during this ceremony, generations come together. Younger students stood with anticipation, feeling rooted in community. Older students embraced their role as leaders with humility and purpose.
This continuing tradition reflects Brookwood School’s greater mission of developing the whole child — a mission supported by the Brookwood Fund. Each year, the fund bridges the gap between tuition and actual cost (nearly $2,500 per student) so that no barrier impedes connection. It’s a structural reminder that at Brookwood, financial stewardship and care are one and the same.
Moments like Homecoming’s Burning of the B are what infuse Brookwood’s academic mission with character. They remind us — and our community — that education goes beyond lessons. It asks us who we’re becoming together.
KELLY CAMPBELL
DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT
BROOKWOOD SCHOOL
Educating for Endurance:
Reshaping Generational Outcomes One Student At A Time
“Do your best in Virginia, then come home. Georgia needs young men like you.”
GOVERNOR BRIAN KEMP
At Atlanta Youth Academy, education is more than academics—it’s a Christcentered mission to equip students with the character, faith, and resilience to lead and serve for a lifetime.
In a city where many families earn under $24,000 a year, AYA students defy the odds:
- 100% graduate to high school
- 98% finish
- 93% enroll in four-year colleges
These outcomes are the result of intentional investment—spiritually, relationally, and academically— student by student, family by family.
Tristian’s story is one example. Raised by his grandmother, his promise and perseverance earned him admission to Randolph-Macon Academy in Virginia.
When AYA President Peter Rooney accompanied him on a school visit, a flight delay led to an unexpected encounter with Governor Brian Kemp. After hearing Tristian’s story, the Governor leaned in and said:
“Do your best in Virginia, then come home. Georgia needs young men like you.”
That moment was more than encouragement—it was affirmation of the kind of leader AYA is committed to raising: grounded in faith, prepared for excellence, and called to serve.
Thanks to the support of the Watkins Christian Foundation, AYA has grown enrollment by over 20%, with plans to double in size. But growth at AYA is never just about numbers—it’s about endurance. It’s about preparing students to thrive, return, and transform their communities through Christ.
DIANE L. DOUGLASS
CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER/DOD
ATLANTA YOUTH ACADEMY
Lighting The Way:
A Year of Growth and Transformation
“Can we worship instead of playing games?”
UNDERCLASSMEN AT GAC
At Greater Atlanta Christian School, our mission is to develop learners, leaders, and followers of Christ. In 2024, our spiritual theme of “Renewal” guided students into deeper faith, stronger relationships, and transformational experiences.
This vision came to life at our high school retreat at Sharp Top Cove, where Juniors and Seniors engaged in worship, teaching, and fellowship. After months of summer training, 83 upperclassmen stepped into leadership, mentoring Freshmen and Sophomores with intentionality and grace.
One of the most powerful moments came when sixteen underclassmen asked, “Can we worship instead of playing games?” Their request led to a spontaneous, Spirit-led time of worship—resulting in several students choosing baptism and declaring a new chapter of faith.
This year was more than memorable—it was spiritually formative. And its impact continues to ripple through our classrooms, chapels, and relationships. A true reflection of the heart of GAC’s mission: to create environments where students feel known, loved, and inspired to grow in Christ.
ALLISON DAWSON
DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
GREATER ATLANTA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Faith & Ministry
Anchored in Faith, Designed for Impact
In this chapter we share testimonials of leadership, spiritual transformation, and long- term impact.
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
MATTHEW 5:14–16 (NIV)
Faith in Action:
Walking with Families Through Loss
“WCF’s faithful partnership made this possible. It allows our ministry to be more than a program—it enables us to remain a steady, trusted presence through both joyful milestones and heartbreaking losses.”
SARAH BREED, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNICATIONS, PARKER STREET MINISTRIES
At the close of 2024, Parker Street Ministries faced a sobering moment: the sudden loss of a student’s father. Because of years of trust and relational investment, the ministry didn’t just offer sympathy—they showed up. In every way that mattered.
Staff and volunteers stood beside the family, providing tangible support and emotional presence. They also opened their doors for the memorial service, transforming a familiar space into sacred ground where the community could gather in grief and remembrance.
Moments like these reveal ministry’s deeper purpose. It’s not only about programs or performance. It’s about presence—the kind that endures, that listens, that holds space when words fall short.
Through WCF’s partnership, Parker Street Ministries continues to live out faith as a daily practice of devotion. One that doesn’t flinch in hardship, but leans in. One that helps families experience not just care, but Christ’s love in real, lasting ways.
SARAH BREED, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNICATIONS, PARKER STREET MINISTRIES
The Origin of Legacy:
Nurturing Leadership That Lasts
“It spoke to the fruit of WyldLife ministry and the impact it had on them for the rest of their lives.”
ELIZABETH MCRAE, DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, SOUTHWINDS YOUNG LIFE CAMP
Youth ministry often promises transformation. But what does longterm impact actually look like?
This summer, one leader at a Florida camp glanced around a room of volunteers—from high school students to working adults in their 40s—and realized something profound: every single one of them had once been a camper in the very program they were now helping lead.
That kind of continuity isn’t luck. It’s legacy.
The product of years of faithful investment, consistent programming, and spaces designed to make faith feel real, communal, and personal. WCF’s support helps these ministries create entire ecosystems of mentorship and service. A seed planted in middle school becomes a life of discipleship, leadership, and radical hospitality.
Over time, those who once needed guidance become the ones offering it.
ELIZABETH MCRAE, DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, SOUTHWINDS YOUNG LIFE CAMP
More Than a Moment:
Youth for Christ and the Ministry of Presence
“That’s the beauty of this work. It is gospel encounters woven into the everyday rhythms of public school life. Students are encountering Jesus while still being fully themselves—messy, hilarious, and wonderfully in process.”
MIKE MCAULIFF, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, METRO ATLANTA YOUTH FOR CHRIST
In the busy world of public schools, real impact comes from caring adults who consistently show up.
At Campus Life clubs by Metro Atlanta Youth for Christ, students have honest conversations about faith and life. As trust builds, stories emerge—and so do moments of grace.
One student recently shared, “When you pray for something to get better and it gets worse… but when I get through it, I realize what He was doing—it was for my good.”
She hadn’t just heard about God—she’d experienced hope through hardship.
That’s the heart of our work: creating a steady, caring space where students can explore faith and find meaning, one conversation at a time. Not as a performance, but as a steady, faithful presence.
MIKE MCAULIFF, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, METRO ATLANTA YOUTH FOR CHRIST
From Camp to Community:
Discipling Tomorrow’s Christian Leader
“ELI changed the way I think about others, myself, and my relationship with God in the best way possible.”
2024 ELI PARTICIPANT
At North Georgia Camp + Retreat Ministries, leadership is lived, not just taught.
The Experiential Leadership Institute (ELI) launches high school juniors and seniors into hands-on leadership, starting with a deep dive into their unique strengths and God-given talents. Followed by intensive training in leadership theory, group dynamics, and character development. Then, they lead elementary campers at Grow Day Camps across North Georgia— putting their skills into action.
ELI’s influence reaches far beyond camp. One alumna recently wrapped up a two-year service assignment in Eswatini with the Peace Corps, her journey rooted in the confidence built as an ELI counselor.
ELI has grown 85% since 2022, sparking a 29% rise in Grow Day Camp enrollment and expanding access for families of all backgrounds.
This isn’t just camp—it’s where character-driven leaders are made, and their impact echoes far beyond the summer.
IAN LLOYD, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT & RETREATS NORTH GEORGIA CAMP + RETREAT MINISTRIES
Empowered to Lead:
How UTC Transforms Athletes into Leaders
“Programs like this don’t just change the trajectory of one life. They multiply impact—on campuses, in communities, and in the hearts of everyone reached by those who return ready to lead. And for students like Auvic, it all begins with access.”
TEG TEGELAAR, AIA ULTIMATE TRAINING CAMPS, UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE SPORTS CHAPLAIN, ATHLETES IN ACTION STAFF
Since 1979, Athletes in Action’s Ultimate Training Camp (UTC) has helped over 10,000 college athletes grow spiritually through high-level competition. Its core message: your worth comes from purpose, not performance.
In 2023, through WCF support, Auvic—a student-athlete, who grew up in foster care— attended UTC in Colorado. Despite a difficult past, he found healing and support through faith. UTC became a turning point. He returned in 2024 as an intern, mentoring others and gaining ministry experience.
Now a campus leader and exploring a call to ministry, Auvic leads Bible studies and shares his story. His journey reflects UTC’s impact— empowering athletes to lead with faith and become catalysts for lasting change in their communities.
TEG TEGELAAR, AIA ULTIMATE TRAINING CAMPS, UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE SPORTS CHAPLAIN, ATHLETES IN ACTION STAFF
Outreach & Reclamation
Light in the Storm
Stories of WCF partners showing up in life’s hardest moments—offering faithful presence, spiritual care, and the strength to rebuild.
“So we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.”
1 THESSALONIANS 2:8 (NIV)
Shared Ground, Lasting Growth:
How Camp Grace Builds Stronger Athletes, Leaders, and Teams
“There’s no better camp for the athletes I serve. Dave and Camp Grace remain committed to affordability, even as costs rise.”
VIRGIL FRIPP, AREA REPRESENTATIVE, SOUTH COASTAL FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN ATHLETES
Camp Grace is more than a sports camp—it’s a place where faith, character, and teamwork grow together. For student-athletes facing pressure on and off the field, it offers a space to reflect, connect, and build resilience.
Over three years, Virgil Fripp has brought students from eight schools, growing from 50 to 78 participants. Through mentorship, team-building, and daily spiritual reflection, athletes learn to lead with integrity and lean on faith.
Coaches grow too—deepening bonds and modeling purpose-driven leadership.
Thanks to donor support, Camp Grace stays accessible to students who need it most. It’s not just a camp—it’s a training ground for the heart. Where teammates become family, and faith becomes fuel for the long game.
PASTOR DAVE PRIDEMORE, FOUNDER, CAMP GRACE
From Obligation to Belonging:
Helping People Return—Not Just to Faith, But to Themselves
“Growth gave us new opportunities to build relationships. We got to demonstrate Christ’s love in ways that transform people—and communities— from the inside out.”
STEVE HILL, CAMPUS DIRECTOR, DREAM CENTER OF LAKELAND
Outreach at the Dream Center of Lakeland is rooted in faith and built on lasting relationships. Volunteers often return, drawn not by obligation but by a sense of belonging and purpose. In 2024, three individuals completing court-ordered service chose to return after their obligation ended.
“They don’t have to be here—they want to be,” says Steve Hill. “Now they’re leaders, bringing their families and spreading joy.”
These stories reflect spiritual renewal and community restoration. As needs grow across Polk County, the Dream Center—through the support of donors, churches, and the community—served over 19,000 meals, provided clothing to 4,200 people, and expanded its food pantry, all while pointing people to the hope found in Christ.
STEVE HILL, CAMPUS DIRECTOR, DREAM CENTER OF LAKELAND
Storm Systems:
Unwavering Faith in Crisis and Community
“These activities not only nurture awareness of selfworth, but also provide witness to the productivity and enduring spirit of the community.”
PASTOR JOHN DEBEVOISE, PALMA CEIA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
When hurricanes Milton and Helene swept through Tampa in 2024 thousands were displaced. Communication networks failed. But within days, Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church became a lifeline.
Digital ministry tools, enabled pastors to livestream prayers, updates, and volunteer needs even while church buildings remained dark. From emergency response coordination to spiritual connection, the church stayed present when others couldn’t.
This readiness wasn’t built overnight. It was the product of a deeper infrastructure. One that remains at work every Thursday through Palma Ceia’s Bethlehem Inclusive Ministry. There, a group of disabled men known as The Ninjas gather for lunch, fellowship, and service projects that bring joy to isolated elders and support to their church home.
It’s more than community service. It’s an ongoing campaign of renewal. Of shared dignity.
Meeting crisis and marginalization with compassion, resilience, and unwavering faith.
PASTOR JOHN DEBEVOISE, PALMA CEIA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Breaking Cycles:
From Survival to Self-Sufficiency
“Without safety, healing is impossible. But with it? Everything changes.”
In Atlanta, more than half of homeless youth face exploitation, and without safe housing, 80% are trafficked again. Even in a safe place, 65% never finish high school—caught in cycles of trauma and poverty.
Wellspring Living’s Women’s Academy is breaking that cycle. Our mission is to transform lives through housing, healing, and education—empowered by faith and guided by the belief that every person deserves dignity and a future. In 2023, 449 survivors and caregivers found refuge and tools for change.
For women like Alexis, Wellspring Living is a lifeline. Abuse defined her childhood. But through our services and programs, she found stability, confidence, and a future. Today, she and her daughter live in a Graduate Village home—a symbol of resilience.
Over 80% of survivors at Wellspring Living are women of color. Their healing is happening now—in classrooms, therapy, jobs, and homes like Alexis’s.
With support from partners like WCF, survivors aren’t just rescued—they’re restored.
HILLARY ROWE WILEY, COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING MANAGER, WELLSPRING LIVING
Guided by Grace:
How Mentorship Transforms Futures
“Our mentors show mentees what life can look like in Christ and beyond the limits of their neighborhood.”
CEDARBROOK OUTREACH TEAM
At Cedarbrook Outreach, mentorship means walking with young people through both progress and setbacks. Quentrell, 18, overcame a difficult home life, graduated early, and began college with support from his mentor, Matthew.
After a season of growth, he faced challenges that led to a changes in housing. Now living independently, Quentrell continues to receive guidance and support as he navigates life’s ups and downs.
“I never thought I’d be the one helping others find their way. But now I see— God had a plan all along.”
QUENTRELL
His story reflects the power of faithful mentorship— steady, grace-filled presence that doesn’t give up. Cedarbrook Outreach continues to invest in lives like Quentrell’s, pointing them toward hope in Christ.
JACK UNDERWOOD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CEDARBROOK OUTREACH
Financial Highlights
54% Education
Helping children, youth and young adults grow in their knowledge and become grounded in their faith to love, lead and serve.
$127,500
$215,000
$1,800,000
35% Faith & Ministry
Drawing youth closer to Christ and nurturing their faith through genuine, faithful relationships. Mentoring and training young leaders for the church
$180,000
$615,000
$622,500
11% Outreach
Alleviating poverty and suffering with an emphasis on homelessness, food insecurity, education, health, mental health, and family stability.
$50,000
$140,000
$250,000
