The Devontee Akeem Davis Dream Foundation

Is a nonprofit organization established in loving memory of a young man whose life was tragically cut short by gun violence.

The Devontee Akeem Davis Dream Foundation

Is a nonprofit organization established in loving memory of a young man whose life was tragically cut short by gun violence.

Inspired by his early dedication to community service, the foundation seeks to carry forward his passion by offering hope, healing, and opportunities to youth who face similar challenges. Rooted in personal loss and a powerful desire to prevent further tragedies, this foundation is dedicated to uplifting youth from underserved urban and rural communities, particularly those who have lost siblings to gun violence.

Operating out of Gulfport, Mississippi, with outreach planned in cities like Collins, MS and Prichard, AL, the foundation focuses on youth ages 10 to 17. It aims to fill the gap often experienced in resource-limited environments by providing transformative experiences that are not typically available to them. These include access to swimming programs, educational travel, career exploration, and criminal justice support initiatives-all designed to nurture the whole child while offering constructive alternatives to the environments that have failed them.

The foundation serves as a sanctuary for healing and personal development, led by Deborah Barnes and a dedicated board of evolving community members. Through its work, the organization strives to expose young people to the joys of childhood, inspire future aspirations, and encourage them to build strong, resilient lives in spite of the adversity they’ve faced. The foundation’s programs serve as a pathway to empowerment and growth, honoring the memory and legacy of Devonte Akeem Davis by continuing the work he began.

Inspired by his early dedication to community service, the foundation seeks to carry forward his passion by offering hope, healing, and opportunities to youth who face similar challenges. Rooted in personal loss and a powerful desire to prevent further tragedies, this foundation is dedicated to uplifting youth from underserved urban and rural communities, particularly those who have lost siblings to gun violence.

Operating out of Gulfport, Mississippi, with outreach planned in cities like Collins, MS and Prichard, AL, the foundation focuses on youth ages 10 to 17. It aims to fill the gap often experienced in resource-limited environments by providing transformative experiences that are not typically available to them. These include access to swimming programs, educational travel, career exploration, and criminal justice support initiatives-all designed to nurture the whole child while offering constructive alternatives to the environments that have failed them.

The foundation serves as a sanctuary for healing and personal development, led by Deborah Barnes and a dedicated board of evolving community members. Through its work, the organization strives to expose young people to the joys of childhood, inspire future aspirations, and encourage them to build strong, resilient lives in spite of the adversity they’ve faced. The foundation’s programs serve as a pathway to empowerment and growth, honoring the memory and legacy of Devonte Akeem Davis by continuing the work he began.

Mission Statement

Empowering underserved youth affected by gun violence through healing programs, educational opportunities, and personal development to help them grow, thrive, and build brighter futures.

Vision Statement

A world where every youth impacted by gun violence has the support and opportunities to heal, succeed, and become a leader in their community.

Mission Statement

Empowering underserved youth affected by gun violence through healing programs, educational opportunities, and personal development to help them grow, thrive, and build brighter futures.

Vision Statement

A world where every youth impacted by gun violence has the support and opportunities to heal, succeed, and become a leader in their community.

Our Products and Services

The Devonte Akeem Davis Dream Foundation offers a range of programs and services designed to support youth ages 10-17 in underserved urban and rural communities. These initiatives aim to foster personal growth, emotional healing, and positive life outcomes, particularly for those affected by gun violence.

Youth Empowerment Programs:

Structured workshops and group sessions focused on building self-esteem, resilience, and leadership skills.

Swimming Lessons & Water Safety:

Providing access to swimming instruction to promote physical well-being, water safety, and confidence in a skill often unavailable to marginalized youth.

Career Exploration & Exposure:

Interactive experiences that introduce youth to various career paths, including mentorships, site visits, and hands-on learning opportunities.

Criminal Justice Support Programs:

Resources and advocacy for youth navigating the justice system or impacted by it, including community education, legal awareness, and restorative justice circles.

Travel and Cultural Exposure:

Opportunities for youth to travel outside their immediate environment, broadening their worldview and inspiring future aspirations.

Scholarship Opportunities:

Financial support for academic and extracurricular pursuits to encourage continued education and skill development.

Founded in memory of Devonte Akeem Davis,

With a heartfelt mission rooted in lived experience and personal loss. Specifically targets youth in rural and urban areas with limited access to developmental resources.

Founded in memory of Devonte Akeem Davis,

With a heartfelt mission rooted in lived experience and personal loss. Specifically targets youth in rural and urban areas with limited access to developmental resources.