Our Team
larry gatewood
As Executive Director, Larry provides dedicated leadership and vision in advancing our nonprofit’s mission to empower youth through sports and the arts. With extensive experience in youth development, coaching, and mentorship, he plays a vital role in creating positive, structured programs that support both personal growth and creative expression for young people.
Larry brings a strong background in coaching and working directly with children across diverse age groups. His approach emphasizes discipline, teamwork, accountability, and confidence, core values that help youth succeed both within our programs and beyond them. Through consistent mentorship, he fosters safe and encouraging environments where young participants feel supported, motivated, and inspired to reach their full potential.
In addition to his work with the nonprofit, Larry is a licensed electrician and owner of a successful small business for 25 years, His professional experience contributes valuable skills in leadership, operations, and organizational management, strengthening the nonprofit’s infrastructure and long-term sustainability. This combination of community-focused service and business expertise allows him to guide the organization with integrity, professionalism, and strategic insight.
Through his commitment to youth, families, and the broader community, Larry continues to lead with purpose, compassion, and a strong belief in the power of opportunity.
Executive Director
christal gatewood
As Executive Creative Director, Christal leads the organization’s creative vision and artistic programming, ensuring that art, creativity, and self-expression are central to its mission of youth empowerment. With over 10 years of experience in the arts and 5 years as the owner of a small art business, she brings both artistic excellence and entrepreneurial leadership to her role.
An accomplished art educator, Christal works directly with children to foster creativity, confidence, and critical thinking through visual arts. She designs and delivers engaging, age-appropriate instruction that encourages self-expression while supporting personal and emotional development. Her teaching approach emphasizes inclusivity, adaptability, and encouragement, allowing each child to explore their creativity in a supportive environment.
In addition to her work with youth, Christal has experience working with children with disabilities, where she has developed accessible and responsive creative programming tailored to diverse learning needs. Her ability to connect with students, families, and staff reflects her strong interpersonal skills and people-centered leadership style.
Beyond instruction, Christal oversees the organization’s branding, web design, and website development, ensuring a cohesive and professional visual presence. Her combined strengths in creative strategy and technical execution enhance outreach, storytelling, and community engagement across digital platforms.
Through her artistic expertise, leadership, and commitment to inclusive creative spaces, Christal plays a key role in shaping programs that inspire youth and elevate the organization’s impact.
Executive Creative Director