Because every child deserves the opportunities that education and hard work can open

Our Story & Leadership

Year One-Where it Began!

Year 9-Look How Far We've Come!

Board of Directors

Everette Sands, Founder and President

I’ve seen what happens when young people put everything into one path without a plan for what comes next. Too many students focus only on sports, struggle in the classroom, and miss opportunities that could shape their future. That’s why I’m committed to helping them see a bigger picture.

Through The WES Foundation, we equip youth with the mindset, discipline, and educational foundation they need to pursue multiple paths—whether that leads to college, a trade, or another career.

I believe real success isn’t built on a single opportunity, but on preparation, support, and the ability to move forward with purpose.

Monica Bailey

I am honored to serve on the Board of the WES Foundation, and my reason is simple: I believe deeply that with the right guidance and work ethic, every individual has the ability to grow and succeed. WES lives that belief out loud.

As a business and life coach, I am passionate about helping people reach their full potential — and that same passion is what drew me to this work. I wanted to be part of an organization that creates real opportunities for young athletes, especially those who may not otherwise have access to experienced coaches and role models who look like them and believe in them.

What keeps me committed is knowing that this work goes beyond sports. It builds confidence, character, and a foundation rooted in teamwork, accountability, and perseverance — values I reinforce every day in my own work. Serving on this board is how I put that conviction into action, helping shape young lives and standing behind the belief that hard work truly does lead to success.

Charles Wallace

I serve on the WES Foundation Board because I believe deeply in what this organization is building — not just athletes, but whole people.

The foundation’s commitment to creating a safe, structured environment where young people can grow on and off the field mirrors my own life’s work of developing people and strengthening communities. That alignment isn’t coincidental — it’s why I said yes.

What makes this work especially meaningful to me is the intentional focus on translating athletic experience into life lessons. Discipline, responsibility, leadership — these aren’t byproducts of the program, they’re the point. Sports become the vehicle; character becomes the destination.

It is an honor to help steward an organization that doesn’t just expose young people to opportunity, but equips them to seize it — in every area of life.

Anthony Sands, Vice President, Treasurer

As a former college athlete and a parent raising student-athletes, I’ve seen firsthand the discipline it takes to balance academics, athletics, and everyday responsibilities. That experience builds habits that shape how young people show up long after sports.

In my work as a business professional, I’ve seen too many young adults enter the workforce without the discipline and life skills needed to succeed. I believe that foundation starts early.

That’s why I serve. I’m committed to helping youth understand that their hard work in both the classroom and on the field matters. Through guidance and connection, I want them to see that the discipline they build today will carry them into success in school, career, and life.

Renee McGowan, Secretary

I became involved with the WES Foundation because I believe every young person deserves to see a future for themselves beyond sports.

I was raised to value the power of academics while growing up in a household shaped by sports. Our family navigated demanding athletic schedules, but the expectation was always clear—work hard, prioritize education, and stay focused on long-term goals.

As a mom of two boys and a Conway native, this work is personal. I understand how powerful it is for young people to see individuals from their own community show up, invest, and give back.

Representation matters. When young people can see what’s possible, they begin to believe it for themselves.

Being part of this work is about more than giving back. It’s about helping the next generation recognize their potential—and equipping them with the mindset to succeed wherever life takes them.

Reuben Gresham - Camp Director

I am involved with the WES Foundation because I know firsthand that young people can win — but they need unconditional, relentless support behind them to do it.

Education is my mission field. Anytime I have the opportunity to pour into children, I show up. It’s not just something I do — it’s who I am.

If I’m being honest, I may benefit just as much as the young people I serve. Every camp experience fills my cup, challenges me to grow, and pushes me to show up as a better man. That’s the kind of work that stays with you.

Heather/ Bruce Alexander

Youth sports have shaped our lives in more ways than one — and that’s exactly why we are honored to serve on the WES Foundation Board.

Bruce has spent over 30 years coaching and mentoring young athletes, pouring into the next generation both on and off the field. And for us personally, youth football is where our story began — it’s how we met. That makes this mission more than professional for us. It’s personal.

We’ve seen firsthand what happens when a young person has strong mentorship, a team behind them, and a community that believes in them. The transformation is real. Being part of an organization that creates those conditions — where kids can grow, compete, and belong — is something we don’t take lightly.

For us, this isn’t about giving back. It’s about investing forward. We are passionate about helping build environments where young people develop confidence, character, and a sense of purpose, and we are grateful to stand alongside others who share that vision.