Who We Are

Based in New York, we are a volunteer-run, non-profit that provides scholarships and support services to low-income black and brown students in New York and fundraising opportunities for Jamaican students.

The organization’s mission, deeply rooted in personal connections, extends far beyond providing financial assistance, fostering a supportive community, and mentorship program that empowers students to reach their full potential. 

MISSION:

We exist to narrow racial gaps in post-secondary opportunity and attainment for low-income, first-generation, students of color; empowering their communities.

VISION:

We envision a world where every Black and Brown student has the opportunity to achieve their full potential through education.

what we do.
how we do it.

student testimony

Empowering through Education

Our Educational Empowerment program provides scholarships and wraparound emotional support to guide low-income Black and Brown students through the challenges of college. We go beyond financial aid to become a safe space where students can discuss their anxieties, navigate tough decisions, and build the confidence to achieve their academic goals.

Our Promise:
Stand by
each student.
We're laser-focused on getting students to and through college.

In 2017, our founder came across the story of Sashalee Beasley, a brilliant Jamaican student struggling to fund her study abroad dreams. Touched by her story, our founder secretly supported her throughout her college journey, driven by a desire she never had herself: someone unwavering in her corner, during prior years of personal struggles. 
Her promise to Sashalee – to help others like her – is the lifeblood of Adopt A Destiny. 
Read our founder’s story

Morlette Cowan

Founder

the numbers

100%

College Graduation Rate

100%

Of our staff are volunteers

30%

Increase in program applications.

Class of 2023,
University of the West Indies, Jamaica

BRITNEY MING

Britney Ming, a Titchfield High alumna and a 2023 UWI graduate, holds a BSc in Bio-Engineering. 

Upon graduating, her final project caught the attention of a professor at Florida Institute of Technology who, after meeting Britney, awarded her a full-ride scholarship to begin her doctorate studies and a part-time assistant teaching role – demonstrating the far-reaching impact of our support.

Get involved

Student?

Whether you need short or long-term assistance our program is tailored to support your higher education needs.

hOW TO HELP

You can change a student's life by sponsoring all or a part of their vocational and college studies. Take the first step now.

What Guides Us

We believe in fostering a culture of truthfulness and transparency in all our interactions. We promote honest team communication and storytelling, ensuring that information is shared openly and authentically. By valuing honesty, we build trust and maintain integrity in our organization.

We are committed to nurturing the potential of every individual, including children and staff. We believe in creating a supportive and encouraging atmosphere that fosters personal and academic growth. By providing the necessary resources, mentorship, and guidance, we empower students and staff to realize their true potential and achieve their goals.

We are driven by a deep sense of empathy and compassion for others. We understand the challenges faced by black and brown low-income high schoolers and college students, and we strive to provide support without judgment. Through empathetic listening and understanding, we create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and valued.

We celebrate and embrace diversity in all its forms. We recognize the unique experiences and perspectives of black and brown individuals, and we actively work towards addressing the disparities faced by minority communities. By promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, we aim to create a more equitable society where every individual has equal opportunities for success and personal fulfillment.

service with a smile

Meet the Team

All of Adopt A Destiny’s governing bodies are a solid and experienced group of volunteers committed to helping the organization achieve its mission of helping first-generation, low-income, minority students start and complete college.
Even though Adopt A Destiny is a volunteer organization, the Board of Directors is committed to providing staff with opportunities for professional development. This may involve attending conferences, workshops, webinars, taking online courses, or shadowing other professionals in the field.

Senior Staff

Morlette Cowan

Founding Member

Morlette Cowan: Founder & President

Driven by a lifelong passion for helping others, Morlette Cowan established Adopt A Destiny in memory of her late sister, Dahlia. An accomplished leader with a 30+ year career, She brings a unique blend of business acumen (MBA, business paralegal experience) and creative expertise (Master's in Creative Writing, seasoned creative director) to empower the next generation.

Carine Hall-Brown

Vice President

Dr. Carine Hall-Brown ND: Championing STEM Education

Award-winning educator (2024 Sloan Winner) with 27 years of experience igniting passion for science in Bronx classrooms. PhD candidate in Naturopathic Health, Dr. Hall-Brown uses her diverse background to empower the next generation of STEM leaders.

Donna Powell-Wilson

Executive Director

Dr. Donna Powell Wilson: Education leader

Dr. Wilson brings a wealth of experience to the board, with a Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction and a passion for math education. A dedicated volunteer, she serves as a Justice of the Peace, Church Secretary, and Women's Group President. Recognized with the Prime Minister's Medal of Appreciation for her 25+ years of service to education.

Volunteers

Wendlamita Ouedraogo

Fundraising & Development Director
Leveraging 5+ years of experience in development and fundraising, I lead strategic initiatives for Adopt A Destiny as the Volunteer Development & Fundraising Director. My expertise in donor cultivation, grant writing, and corporate partnerships fuels successful fundraising campaigns, securing critical resources for sustainable growth.

Philo Uwamaria

Writer & Content Manager
Philo Uwamaria is a seasoned marketing professional with over 8 years of experience in the industry. She started her career as a newswriter at a local TV station, where she developed her skills in writing and editing. She then transitioned into digital marketing, working as an asset copywriter for an agency.

Alexis Wynn

Writer & Email Coordinator
Alexis Wynn is a project manager and YA writer from Queens. As an alum of Prep for Prep, a leadership development and gifted education program, she understands first-hand the importance of mentorship and readiness for low income youth. She spends her time volunteering as a writer for various non-profit youth organizations and is excited to join the Adopt a Destiny family.
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from our blog.

Latest News

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Hope lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams into reality.

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Mailing Address

116-23 196th Street,
New York, NY United States

Contact Us

Feel free to call, send us an email or submit an inquiry. We'll respond within 48-hours.

2024 – Adopt A Destiny. All rights reserved.

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