About Us

Business people, applause and group with smile by laptop for goals, success or agreement for b2b deal. Men, women and team celebration in boardroom for workplace, announcement and winning in office

Our Belief: We Build Leaders.

We believe potential exists in every young person. But potential without a path forward is just an idea. At the Winners Institute for Successful Empowerment (WISE), we build that path.

We were founded on the principle that young people are not problems to be solved, but are our community's most valuable resource. They are the future, and our job is to equip them with the tools they need to build it on their own terms. We don't just talk about change; we actively create the environment where it can happen.

Group of children joining hands together standing in the park, Kids playing teamwork outdoor.

OUR MISSION

The mission of the Winners Institute for Successful Empowerment (WISE) Inc. is to equip young people with the essential tools, mentorship, and resilience needed to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential as future leaders.

Our Approach: More Than Mentorship

We move beyond theory and take direct action. Our approach is built on providing tangible opportunities for growth and empowerment. This includes:

Hands-On Skill Development: From career guidance to practical life skills, we provide the knowledge our youth need to navigate the world with confidence.
Authentic Mentorship: We connect young people with trained, dedicated adult leaders who offer guidance, support, and relentless encouragement.
Active Community Leadership: Through events, civic engagement like our annual creek clean-up, and programs like the Wheelergy! Bike Club, we create real-world opportunities for youth to lead and make a visible impact.

A Note from Our Founder

WISE was born from a simple, powerful observation: telling young people they have potential isn’t enough. We have to actively help them build it.

I founded WISE to be an engine for empowerment here in Burlington—a place that moves beyond academic theory and takes direct action to forge the resilient, confident leaders our community needs. This work is my commitment and our team's passion. We believe in every young person who walks through our doors, and we are dedicated to helping them find the winner within.

— Tavores Vanhook, Founder