From Purpose to Impact: Reflecting on 17 Years of Empowering the Next Generation
By Hannah Cassimere, Executive Director, Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation
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As we closed out 2025 at our End of Year Cultivation Event, I was reminded of the extraordinary power of purpose when it is lived, not just spoken. Being surrounded by partners, supporters, and leaders who believe in investing in the next generation was both humbling and energizing.
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My journey with the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation began in 2009, when Steve Harvey opened his ranch in Texas to mentor a small group of young men. What started as a simple act of service became something none of us could have fully imagined, a national movement rooted in mentorship, education, wellness, and community empowerment. Seventeen years later, the Foundation continues to stand as a trusted place of growth and opportunity for youth and families across the country.
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The Foundation was built on Steve and Marjorie Harvey’s belief that giving back is not just a responsibility, it is a calling. That belief continues to guide our mission: to empower young people to rise above circumstance and lead with purpose. Through mentorship, academic support, wellness resources, and life-building skills, we equip young people with the tools to build strong foundations for brighter futures.
Over the years, I have witnessed transformations that reaffirm why this work matters. I have seen young men who once questioned their path graduate and become engineers, pilots, counselors, and entrepreneurs. I have seen young women from our Girls Who Rule the World program step confidently into leadership, finance, technology, and community service. Most importantly, I have seen young people who once felt unseen discover their voices, confidence, and sense of purpose.
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In 2025, our Steve Harvey Mentoring Program for Young Men and Girls Who Rule the World programs reached new heights. We introduced the GA AIM 53-foot AI Mobile Studio, providing hands-on access to emerging technology. We partnered with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs to deliver entrepreneurship training and hosted our first Youth Pitch Competition, creating real pathways for innovation and ownership.
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Through our collaboration with Chase Bank, our young men, young women, and families gained essential financial literacy skills that support independence and long-term stability. We also expanded our College & Career Fair, welcoming institutions and corporate partners including Morehouse College, Texas A&M University, Trilith Institute, Hyatt, Coca-Cola, Lowe’s, and many others. These moments were more than conversations, they were doorways to opportunity.
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While technology, entrepreneurship, and career readiness are critical, the heart of our work remains unchanged. Character. Leadership. Responsibility. Purpose. Every workshop, mentor conversation, and moment with Mr. and Mrs. Harvey reinforces the values that shape confident, capable young leaders.
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I am deeply grateful to our program partners, Veritas, Next Step Education Foundation, Gordon State College, Utopian Academy for the Arts, Ladies Who Golf and our committed volunteers who give their time, talent, and energy to uplift our youth. We are proud to stand alongside you in this work.
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None of this impact would be possible without our partners, sponsors, and donors. Your generosity has been transformed into opportunity allowing us to expand programming, fund scholarships, and create spaces where young people can dream without limits.
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As we look ahead, we are preparing to expand our mentoring programs into new markets as the need continues to grow, and so does our resolve.
Seventeen years ago, we planted a seed. Because of your belief and partnership, it has grown and the harvest continues. Thank you for believing in our youth. Thank you for believing in this mission. And thank you for walking alongside us as we empower the next generation of leaders.
