Empowering Communities Through Education: Crystal Shakur, Founder of Grateful Education Foundation
In the heart of Kansas City, Missouri, Crystal Shakur, the founder of the Grateful Education Foundation (GEF), is making waves with her passion for education and community service. Born and raised in Kansas City, Shakur's deep-rooted connection to her hometown and her family has been a driving force behind her life's work. With 11 siblings, a husband, two children, and five grandchildren, family and community have always been at the center of her world.
A Passion for Learning and Teaching
"I love education, and I love learning," Shakur shares with a warm smile. "Even as a kid, I played school with my siblings, always taking on the role of the teacher. It's a God-given inspiration and talent, and I believe I'm pretty good at it." Her journey from a proud Central High School graduate to pursuing a specialist degree in education has shaped her into the dedicated educator she is today.
Shakur’s passion for education and her natural ability to teach have not only benefited her students but have also led to the creation of the Grateful Education Foun-dation. "If someone's able to learn something and improve, that’s my blessing. That’s part of what inspired the Grateful Education Foundation," she explains.
Inspiration and Motivation Behind GEF
The idea for GEF was born out of Shakur’s experiences working in schools and witnessing the need for compre-hensive wraparound services that go beyond traditional education. "My motivation honestly was working in the schools and seeing a lot of the needs around not just the resources, but the education around those needs," Shakur says. "I wanted to change the narrative and help the community make better choices."
Her journey took a pivotal turn when she connected with a colleague who shared her vision. Encouraged to participate in the Center for Neighborhood Leadership courses, Shakur found the support and guidance she needed to bring her vision to life. "That was God’s work. There are no coincidences," she reflects.
Overcoming Challenges in Building GEF
Starting a nonprofit is no small feat, and Shakur candidly shares some of the challenges she faced. "In the begin-ning, it was challenging because I didn’t have a network or know about the available resources," she admits. Financial sustainability has also been a hurdle, as is often the case with nonprofits. "Leveraging sustainabil-ity has been a major focus. I also have a for-profit business in child development and academic tutoring, which I’m working to grow."
Despite these challenges, GEF has been able to secure grants that have allowed the foundation to sustain its monthly programs. "We’ve been blessed to receive grants every year, which has helped us keep a regular calendar of events like mental health awareness and gun safety," Shakur notes.
Collaborative Efforts and Partnerships
Shakur attributes much of GEF’s success to the collective efforts of her board and the strong partnerships she has built within the community. "Our vision is to provide educational supports—mental, social, emotional, and academic. The relationships we’ve built have truly sustained us and propelled us forward," she says.
Some of the key partners include the Neighborhoods Rising Fund under Community Capital Fund, the Missouri Afterschool Network, local businesses like MOVE Thrift Store, and organizations like Foxtown West Neighborhood Association. "I’m always looking for partnerships and ways to grow what we’re doing because teaching about entrepreneurship early will help change our community," Shakur adds.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs & Nonprofit Leaders
For those looking to start a nonprofit or a business, Shakur offers this advice: "First, do your research and educate yourself on the process. Secondly, build a founding board with the same vision and passion. Lastly, be willing to put in the hours—it’s still a business, and you have to do the work."
Looking Forward
As GEF continues to grow, Shakur envisions an even greater impact. "The big dream is to be an education center supporting our community, offering classes more frequently, and expanding our reach," she shares with enthusiasm.
For those interested in getting involved with the Grate-ful Education Foundation, Shakur encourages people to visit the foundation’s website at www.gefkc.org, follow them on social media, or give her a call directly at 816-510-2585.
A Message to the Community
Shakur leaves us with a powerful message: "We are truly inspired to support the African American commu-nity in particular. Everything that happens in life, even tragic or traumatizing events, doesn’t have to be our downfall. There’s always a way to grow and improve. I hope that’s what people gain from engaging with us. I’m grateful for this opportunity to let the people know we are here. So, come on and let’s change our community together."
Crystal Shakur’s work through the Grateful Education Foundation is a testament to the power of education, community, and perseverance. Her journey from a dedicated educator to a community leader serves as an inspiration to all who strive to make a difference.
