WELCOME TO THE GADDIS FOUNDATION
We're glad you're here.
Learn about the Gaddis Foundation and our enriching programs, designed for Central Ohio students.
“Succeeding is inevitable for me. Success is my reality.”
Upcoming Save the Dates
NEW! Jump Start Day Trips
We're exploring adding shorter, day trip college visits to our programing. See the below tentative itineraries:
May 2026 (TBD)
Central State University
Wilberforce University
June 2026 (TBD)
Bowling Green State University
July 2026 (TBD)
University of Cincinnati
NEW! Jump Start Capstone
(Cohort 3)
Scholarship Preparation Starts Here
Jump Start Capstone is a free workshop series for high school juniors and seniors that guides students through the scholarship application process, including essay writing, opportunity search, and application strategies.
Registration Open Now - First Session April 11, 2026 (Virtual)
Fall 2026 Jump Start Tour Experience
(a part of Jump Start Compass (Cohort 1))
October 11 - 17, 2026
Proposed visits include Florida A & M, Clark Atlanta, Spelman College, Morehouse College, Jackson State University, North Carolina A & T, Dillard and Xavier Universities, The French Quarter and International Civil Rights Museum. Must be enrolled in Jump Start Compass (Cohort 1)
Jump Start Compass Summer Intensive
ACT/SAT Bootcamp + College & Career Lab
July 6 - July 31, 2026
Application Window Opens May 1, 2026
Thank you, City of Columbus!
The Willie and Vivian Gaddis Foundation is dedicated to empowering youth in Central Ohio by fostering education, entrepreneurship, and purposeful development to help every scholar realize their potential.
Our Mission and Vision
The foundation believes that every child carries a divine spark and has the potential to become a scholar. Through education, entrepreneurship, and intentional exposure, we equip youth in Central Ohio to discover, affirm their talents, and live out their individual purpose
Our Programs
Our programs are designed to build legacy, foster leadership, and create multigenerational impact—one scholar at a time.
Jump Start
Compass (Cohort 1)
A 10-month Pathway to Leadership & Readiness
Jump Start Compass is a 10-month, cohort-based program for high school scholars in grades 9–11. Through monthly sessions, mentorship, and experiential learning, students build leadership skills, college and career awareness, decision-making ability, and confidence to navigate life beyond high school.
Jump Start Open Access Scholars (Cohort 2)
Explore Compass without Full Enrollment
Open Access Scholars are high school students who participate in select Compass monthly sessions at no cost. While not enrolled in the full Compass cohort, students are welcome to engage in designated learning experiences, discussions, and activities alongside cohort scholars.
Jump Start Capstone (Cohort 3)
Scholarship Preparation Starts Here
Jump Start Capstone is a free workshop series for high school juniors and seniors that guides students through the scholarship application process, including essay writing, opportunity search, and application strategies.
Academic Legacy Scholarships
Investing in Educational Access & Opportunity
Our academic scholarships support students who demonstrate commitment, potential, and a desire to pursue higher education. By reducing financial barriers, we help scholars focus on learning, growth, and achieving their academic goals.
2026 Community Partners
