Excite All Stars, a nonprofit founded in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, is making a profound difference in New Orleans by empowering children to become leaders who change the world. Co-founders Penny Marquez-Williams and Gerald Williams have dedicated nearly two decades to creating a safe, supportive environment for kids to grow, learn, and lead.
“Excite All Stars is where hope meets opportunity,” explains Penny, the organization’s COO and executive director. “Every child that walks through our doors is embraced as a future leader, and every activity is designed to unlock their full potential.” From STEM academics to arts, athletics, and leadership training, this program provides holistic programs aimed at shaping confident, skilled young leaders.
The organization was born out of a need for a safe place for children to go while their parents worked to rebuild their lives after Hurricane Katrina. “We started with 25 kids that summer, and now we serve over 1,000 kids annually. It’s pretty amazing to see the journey,” recalls Gerald, the CEO.
A Ripple Effect of Change
“Our goal is simple but powerful: to create a ripple effect of positive change,” says Penny. By equipping kids with confidence, skills, and opportunities, Excite All Stars is building a generation of leaders who will transform the city, and hopefully, the world.
The co-founders are proud of the tangible results they are seeing, with many former participants returning to express their gratitude and success stories. Penny reflects on this long-term impact: “We’re just doing the work that needs to be done, but to hear [kids] come back and say, ‘Thank you,’ we feel heard. That keeps us going.”
Expanding Horizons
Excite All Stars’ offerings are as varied as they are impactful. “We utilize the three A’s: arts, academics, athletics,” explains Gerald. Each program is tailored to develop leadership skills and prepare children for success in school and beyond. This includes STEM-based learning, hands-on projects, and collaboration, which prepares kids for the challenges they’ll face in college and the workforce
Looking ahead, Excite All Stars has an exciting roadmap for growth and expanded impact in 2025. One of their major new initiatives is the integration of the Computing for Youth with Autism program, which will provide workforce readiness services to teens and young adults on the autism spectrum. This program will begin in January and further strengthen the organization’s commitment to supporting children with special needs in New Orleans and beyond.
In addition, the organization is expanding its facilities in New Orleans East, offering a larger indoor and outdoor space to serve even more children. The expanded space will include sensory-friendly areas for children on the spectrum and adaptive play spaces for those with physical disabilities. Excite All Stars also plans to enhance its educational offerings, including more STEM programs, mentorship opportunities, and leadership development for high school students. With these efforts, Excite All Stars is poised to continue its mission of creating future leaders who can change the world, one child at a time.
A Personal Mission
For Penny and Gerald, the mission is personal. “We’re both from New Orleans East. This type of work we’re doing in the community we both grew up in matters so much to us,” says Gerald. The pair is especially excited about their upcoming All Star Awards in March 2025, an event recognizing public servants, community leaders, and young changemakers. Proceeds from the event will support the organization’s programs, including its new initiative for youth on the autism spectrum.
How You Can Help
As the organization grows, its founders remain steadfast in their commitment. “You are the heroes who make our Mission Possible. Your donations provide the tools kids need to succeed: STEM kits, art supplies, a safe place to grow, and your time as a volunteer shows kids they matter,” says Penny. At Excite All Stars, they believe every child deserves a champion.
To learn more about Excite All Stars or support their mission, visit ExciteAllStars.org.
