HISTORY

  Background:

The Teen Kingz were born from a simple yet profound concept: a group of young men who transformed their casual hangouts into a powerful force for growth and education. The origins trace back to 2009 at LeShawn Davis’ home, where a group of friends would gather to enjoy football, basketball, video games, and the occasional home-cooked meal. However, Ms. Davis, eager to encourage her son and his friends to develop intellectually, implemented a unique rule: if they wanted to hang out, they had to read aloud for at least thirty minutes.

To her surprise, the young men embraced this challenge. What began as a way to spend time in Ms. Davis’ home quickly evolved into a daily ritual of reading and discussion. Inspired by their newfound commitment to learning, Ms. Davis began to engage with the boys on a deeper level. She encouraged them to identify topics that mattered to them—issues they faced as young men growing up in their community.

The Birth of the Teen Kingz

In 2009, the Teen Kingz officially emerged as a structured group. With the aim of motivating and supporting each other academically, they launched a tutoring program that encouraged excellent grades and a dedication to education. This initiative became a cornerstone of their identity, promoting not just individual achievement but collective responsibility.

A Tragic Loss

Unfortunately, the Teen Kingz faced a devastating setback in 2022 when their beloved CEO was murdered in a senseless act of violence. This tragedy struck a deep chord within the community, casting a shadow over their achievements and bringing to light the urgent issues surrounding violence in society. The loss galvanized the Teen Kingz, prompting them to honor his memory by continuing their work with renewed vigor and commitment to making a positive impact.

Legacy and Impact

The Teen Kingz have since grown beyond their initial gatherings at Ms. Davis' home. Their commitment to education, leadership, and community service has inspired many others in their community. They have organized events and collaborated with local organizations to create programs not only for young men but also for teenage females, daycare-age students, and adults. This expansion reflects their dedication to uplifting the entire community.

What started as a simple reading rule has blossomed into a transformative program that continues to impact individuals of all ages today, demonstrating the power of community, education, and friendship. The Teen Kingz stand as a testament to how the right environment and support can cultivate leaders for the future, even in the face of adversity.