A New Manifest Destiny
In the 1840’s, the phrase “Manifest Destiny” was first used to signal support for westward expansion across the North American continent. In practicality, this expression became a rallying cry for a policy of imperialism that ultimately led to the Mexican-American War; which was how the west was won. The goal, however, was to expand the country’s potential, as a continental nation—“from sea to shining sea.”
Fast forward nearly 170 years later and Americans today find themselves in the same situation; desiring to unite the country, again, as one nation—under God. In support of what we, too, believe to be a divinely inspired mission to tear down walls and build bridges, as Americans, the Destined for Greatness Foundation was established to help do just that.
As ordinary citizens, from all walks of life, we believe that the time has come for each of us to put aside the things that divide us as people and embrace the ideas that unite us as Americans. Just as importantly, we aim to “Redefine America’s Manifest Destiny” by changing what it means to be “one nation”—again… “with liberty and justice for ALL.”
To that end, our foundation believes that, although we have faced some challenges in the past, our best days are ahead of us. America is “destined for greatness” again. However, we also believe that America is only as strong as the most vulnerable amongst us–our children and the poor–and providing them with opportunities and beacons of hope is the greatest cause of our time. Moreover, we know that when coupled together, poor children, through no fault of their own, deserve a second chance at achieving the American Dream–and sometimes a second chance at making a proper first impression. And that’s where we come in…
The Destined For Greatness Foundation, through our core aims of advocating for meaningful juvenile justice reform, raising student retention rates and providing unique mentorship opportunities, aims to achieve the goal of reducing recidivism and increasing college matriculation, by preparing tomorrow’s leaders today!
The two target groups we aim to serve are nonviolent, first-time youthful offenders, and talented, but economically disadvantaged students interested in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), who are ages 12 to 17 and are willing to commit to the Code of Ethics expected of them as members of The Greatness Society.
Just as importantly, our goal is to position the Foundation as the leading voice among small and mid-sized nonprofits and groups working in the areas of juvenile justice reform, student retention and mentorship, providing leadership and service for our confederation of like-minded organizations.
As inheritors of a grand history and tradition that makes us uniquely Americans, and until our “manifest destiny” is redefined, the work we do will continue.
