We are Forming our Leadership Team

Ike is the Foundation's founder, a proud militarty veteran, father, husband, and grandson of Viola Ford Fletcher. His passion fuels his life of service, brought by firsthand experience of the diverse challenges and opportunities found in our contemporary societal construct. A respectful and loving relationship with Viola and his Uncle Red, solidifies his belief that supportive governance structures: mentors, caregivers, and family are essential to achieving your creative best and living well. Ike knows that together we are better.

Viola Ford Fletcher is an American woman, a mother, and a great-grandmother. She is well-known as the oldest living survivor of one of the worst race massacres in the USA's history. Working as a domestic worker until the age of 85, Viola encourages self-sufficiency. She believes knowledge, supportive caregivers, and a quality community grounded in faith empowers possibility. She is still active and working to bring justifiable and equitable opportunities for all people.

Hughes Van Ellis, warmly known as Uncle Redd, is a U.S. Army veteran, proud father, and brother Viola Ford Fletcher. Serving as a Sergeant in WWII, beginning in 1943, as a member of the segregated all-black Army; 234th AAA Anti-aircraft Artillery 90 mm Gun Battalion as a radar and aircraft high firing observer. His service exposed him to global realities in India, Burma, Japan, and the United States. Ellis supported his family as a jet engine mechanic at Tinker Airforce Base and worked 3 jobs as a security guard. Ellis worked until he was 85 years old. Uncle Redd's strength comes from a firm belief in family and education a person's way forward to self-sufficiency. Later obtaining his high school diploma, Ellis "Lives and learns," suggesting experience is the great teacher; valuing your experiences is essential. Always do the best for yourself and your family.