About Us
The Dave Paige Foundation was born out of a deep desire to change the narrative for African American men who have long faced systemic barriers to success. Guided by the belief that every life holds limitless potential, the foundation is dedicated to breaking cycles of poverty, incarceration, and inequality, replacing them with opportunities for education, empowerment, and community transformation.
The foundation is the brainchild of Dave Paige, a proud native of Bessemer, Alabama, who has spent his life championing innovation and equity in underserved communities. From revitalizing urban areas to creating opportunities for economic growth, Dave’s work has consistently focused on addressing the challenges African American men face in education, employment, and community development. His personal journey, shaped by witnessing the resilience and untapped potential of his own community, inspired him to build a foundation dedicated to driving meaningful change.
African American men face a unique set of challenges that cannot be ignored. They represent just 6.5% of the U.S. population, yet account for nearly 34% of the prison population—a result of systemic bias and unequal opportunities. Only 15% of African American men hold a bachelor’s degree, and unemployment rates remain nearly double those of their white counterparts. Nearly half of African American adults are functionally illiterate, and many communities lack access to quality healthcare, affordable housing, and essential social services. These statistics tell a sobering story, but they also serve as a call to action—a challenge the Dave Paige Foundation is determined to meet.
At its core, the foundation is about solutions. It’s about creating pathways for African American men to succeed, whether that’s through education initiatives that help young men graduate, workforce programs that provide job training in high-demand industries, or reentry services that give formerly incarcerated individuals the tools to rebuild their lives. But the work goes deeper than programs; it’s about creating a ripple effect in communities—one life at a time. By investing in leadership development, affordable housing, and community wellness, the foundation creates opportunities that extend beyond individuals, reaching families and neighborhoods.
For partners and funders, the Dave Paige Foundation offers more than just a chance to give—it offers a chance to be part of a transformative movement. Every dollar, every hour, every resource invested in this work has a measurable impact on real lives. It means fewer young men dropping out of school, more families finding economic stability, and stronger communities that thrive rather than just survive.
The foundation’s approach is bold, collaborative, and rooted in measurable outcomes. We partner with businesses, local governments, schools, and community organizations to build bridges where barriers once stood. Whether it’s empowering a young man to become the first in his family to graduate college or transforming an underserved neighborhood into a hub of opportunity, the Dave Paige Foundation ensures that every initiative creates lasting change.
Those who join us are not just donors or partners—they’re part of a legacy of hope and resilience. They’re part of a story that redefines what’s possible for African American men and the communities they call home. Together, we’re building a future where opportunity is not just a possibility but a reality for all.
Who is Dave Paige?
Dave Paige’s story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to empowering those who often feel overlooked and underserved. As the founder of the Dave Paige Foundation, his mission stems from a deeply personal understanding of the struggles faced by African American men and communities of color. Growing up in environments shaped by systemic inequities, Dave witnessed firsthand the barriers created by lack of access to quality education, economic opportunities, and supportive resources. These experiences did not deter him; instead, they fueled a passion to create change.
Dave's journey is a testament to overcoming adversity. He intimately understands the weight of being underestimated and the difficulty of navigating a world where opportunities often seem out of reach. Rising above the challenges of his environment, he developed not only a vision for his own success but also a profound desire to pave the way for others to succeed as well.
The foundation reflects Dave’s belief in the transformative power of hope, opportunity, and community support. He knows what it means to fight for a better future, and he recognizes the potential in those who share his background and struggles. Dave sees greatness in young men grappling with broken systems, in families striving to break cycles of poverty, and in communities yearning for investment and growth. Through his leadership, the Dave Paige Foundation offers more than programs and resources—it provides a hand up, a beacon of possibility, and a reminder that no one is defined by their circumstances.
Dave Paige's vision is deeply personal, but its impact is universal. He works tirelessly to ensure that future generations won’t just survive but thrive, equipped with tools, education, and opportunities to rewrite their own stories. His life and work serve as a powerful example of what is possible when passion meets purpose, and when someone dares to believe in the potential of others.