Empowering Children and Families

The Uplift Way

Our mission is to empower children through holistic support that fosters their growth academically, physically, and emotionally. By providing access to high-quality educational resources, we aim to equip young minds with the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond. We believe every child, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves the opportunity to realize their full potential.

In addition to supporting academic achievement, we are committed to nurturing the physical development of children by promoting athletics as an essential part of their growth. Our sports programs teach teamwork, discipline, and perseverance while encouraging healthy lifestyles and positive self-esteem. Through these activities, we help children develop the resilience and confidence they need to thrive.

Building Skills, Resilience, and Community

We also recognize the importance of mental well-being in a child's overall development. By offering mental health resources, counseling services, and supportive programs, we ensure that every child has the tools to manage stress, build emotional resilience, and cultivate a positive sense of self.

Our goal is to create an environment where children can flourish in all aspects of life, equipped with the skills, confidence, and support to face any challenge.

“There Is No Uplift Without U”

The Antelope Valley Community Uplift Foundation (AVCUF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit company.

Children smiling in a classroom setting.

Meet Our Founder

Woman in pink blazer, professional portrait.

Keysha White

Executive Director

info@avupliftone.org

Cedric was born and raised in Compton and graduated as the top defensive lineman from Dorsey High School after being educated in the Compton School District. He received a football scholarship to the University of Washington but later transferred to North Carolina A&T, attracted by its rich Black history. There, he majored in construction management while continuing to play football.

After being drafted by the St. Louis Rams and later playing for the Miami Dolphins, Cedric returned to California to teach with LAUSD. He then became a probation officer for the County of Los Angeles, also serving as a substitute teacher with LACOE in probation camps and juvenile halls.

Over 25 years, he dedicated himself to youth and adult rehabilitation before retiring to focus on community nonprofit work. Cedric founded the AVCUF to serve Lancaster, Palmdale, Pasadena, Altadena, Los Angeles, and Compton. He initiated a mentoring program for at-promise youth and leads impactful initiatives, such as the Community Baby Showers in partnership with the African American Infant Maternal Mortality (AAIMM). This event educates young mothers on self-care and connects them with essential resources like diapers, car seats, baby formula, and support from mental health professionals and doulas.

Cedric is especially proud of his mental health workshops, which aim to break down barriers and reduce stigma around mental health in the Black community. These workshops, held throughout the year, help individuals and families access necessary services and support. Cedric intentionally creates opportunities for families to engage and build lasting memories, such as the Dodgers Family Night, which helps youth dream big. For many caregivers, this was their first time attending a Dodgers game.

Cedric has also brought golf to the Black community, making it accessible to youth through professional lessons, exposing our youth to opportunities they may not have otherwise experienced. AVCUF runs various programs, including gang prevention and gun violence intervention programs, year-round sports led by college students and community professionals, and high-risk mentoring initiatives. AVCUF currently operates ASES and ELO-P after-school programs at eight Lancaster School District schools, offering over thirty non-school-day programs based on student and community feedback.

Additionally, they have mentoring programs at three Palmdale School District sites, two in the Lancaster School District, and Cole Middle School in the Eastside Union School District. Cedric also emphasizes financial literacy, providing valuable education to families to help them achieve economic empowerment and growth.

Cedric is the president of the AV Black Chamber of Commerce and serves on the board of directors for the Antelope Valley YMCA. He is also a past City of Lancaster Commissioner.
His partnerships include the Los Angeles Rams, Major League Soccer, Antelope Valley Community College, Charles Drew Medical University, Los Angeles County Mental Health, Bridge Builders Foundation, and several African American organizations, enhancing the foundation's reach and effectiveness.
He has received numerous awards for his outstanding contributions to the community from organizations like Three Heart Connection, Lancaster School District, Eastside Union School District, and Assemblyman Tom Lackey.
Recognized by local districts, the cities of Lancaster and Palmdale, and Senator Wilk, Cedric’s AV Community Uplift Foundation was named Nonprofit of the Year by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in 2023 and by Three Heart Foundation in 2024.
He was also named volunteer of the year by the Sigma Iota Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Currently pursuing a master's in restorative practices, Cedric remains committed to reducing chronic absenteeism and creating jobs and opportunities for the communities he serves.