At the John R. Lewis Legacy Institute, our vision is more than just a guiding principle; it is the embodiment of Congressman John R. Lewis’s life work and enduring message of justice, equality, and courage. Known for his unwavering commitment to civil rights and his call to engage in “good trouble,” Congressman Lewis inspired generations to stand up against injustice and work toward systemic change. Our mission is to carry forward this legacy by empowering individuals, particularly the next generation, to advocate for justice, foster inclusivity, and create impactful change in their communities.

Challenges and uncertainty are an inevitable part of any mission-driven work, but staying true to our purpose ensures that we remain effective. Revisiting the core values that Congressman Lewis lived by serves as our moral compass. These values—justice, equality, and the belief in the power of collective action—remind us that our work is part of a larger movement. This connection to our roots keeps us focused, even in the face of obstacles.

Courageous leadership requires collaboration. By partnering with our community, stakeholders, and organizations, we foster an environment where innovative solutions can emerge. The strength found in collective leadership not only helps us navigate challenges but also amplifies our ability to make an impact. The end goal of our work—empowering youth, strengthening communities, and fostering systemic change—keeps us moving forward. When faced with adversity, we view challenges as opportunities to demonstrate resilience and adaptability.

Congressman Lewis often spoke about drawing lessons from history and maintaining hope for the future. His example inspires us to do the same, allowing us to learn from both our achievements and setbacks and remain committed to our mission with optimism. His teachings and life serve as a constant reminder of what true leadership looks like: leading with integrity, courage, and compassion. Inspired by his example, we aim to mentor and empower the next generation of leaders through initiatives like Camp Promise.

This transformative program is designed for high school-aged young men, particularly those in grades 9 through 12. Hosted annually at Emory University, Camp Promise provides participants with the tools they need to thrive academically, personally, and socially. Through mentorship, leadership training, and exposure to diverse perspectives, the camp fosters self-awareness and a commitment to community service. The program instills in its participants the values that Congressman Lewis held dear: courage, resilience, and a determination to create “good trouble” for positive change.

Our programs emphasize practical skills that will serve participants throughout their lives, such as financial literacy, public advocacy, and resume building. These tangible tools ensure that our youth leaders are not just prepared to lead but are equipped to inspire those around them. Initiatives like the Good Trouble Mentorship Program pair young people with mentors who embody Congressman Lewis’s principles. These mentors provide guidance, encouragement, and a roadmap for navigating the complexities of leadership.

Our programs inspire young leaders to become active participants in their communities. We emphasize the importance of voting rights, advocacy, and standing up for systemic change. By encouraging this engagement, we hope to create a network of empowered individuals who continue to fight for justice long after they leave our programs.

Reflecting on our mission and accomplishments, we aspire to leave a legacy defined by empowerment, justice, and transformative change. We strive to demonstrate that true leadership is not about power or prestige but about serving others. Our hope is to inspire other organizations to prioritize humanity, justice, and inclusivity in their operations.

It’s not enough to make a difference today; we aim to build structures that ensure lasting impact. Through sustainable partnerships and forward-thinking programs, we want to inspire long-term, systemic change that will last generations. We want young leaders who have participated in Camp Promise and the Good Trouble Mentorship Program to carry forward Congressman Lewis’s legacy. Their courage, resilience, and commitment to justice are the true measures of our impact.

Our goal is for the youth we reach to become changemakers unafraid of challenging the status quo. We want them to remember Congressman Lewis’s words and act boldly for the greater good. Our impact is not limited to individual leaders; it extends to the communities they serve. Through mentorship, education, and advocacy, we aim to make sure every community feels seen, heard, and empowered.

As an organization, we have evolved by learning from the past and adapting to meet new challenges. Our growth reflects the adaptability that Congressman Lewis himself displayed throughout his life. We started by envisioning a world where Congressman Lewis’s legacy would inspire change. Over time, we have shifted to actively creating that change, launching programs like Camp Promise and building partnerships that empower individuals and communities.

While civil rights advocacy was our starting point, we expanded our focus to include education, financial literacy, and civic engagement. This holistic approach reflects the understanding that true change requires addressing systemic barriers from multiple perspectives. Initially, our work was more independent, but as we have grown, we have seen the immense power of partnerships. Collaborating with schools, corporations, and community organizations has made our initiatives stronger and more impactful.

Navigating funding challenges and societal issues has taught us the importance of resilience and innovation. These lessons have reinforced our commitment to persevering through adversity with hope and determination. To young people aspiring to make a difference, we offer this advice: Embrace the spirit of good trouble, lead with integrity, stay resilient, and lift others as you climb. The most important quality to cultivate? Empathy. When you understand the experiences of others, you can create solutions that uplift entire communities.

The John R. Lewis Legacy Institute is committed to helping the next generation find their voice, pursue their purpose, and make a lasting impact. Together, we can continue the work of Congressman Lewis and build a future of justice, equality, and hope.

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