H.O.P.E. Leadership Group is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit mental development mentorship program for student-athletes.
We deliver personalized, 1-on-1 coaching directly to the youth wherever they need us most, at home, school, or on the field. By partnering with families, teachers, and coaches, we help build habits, growth, confidence, and self-belief needed to succeed in the classroom, in athletics, and in life.

HABITS OWNERSHIP PURPOSE EXECUTION

Changing the face of Student-Athlete Development

Connect and learn more

WHERE IT STARTED

Before HOPE, there was VFZ

Where we Are Today

My name is Akil Williams. As a mentor, student advisor, father, and the Founder of H.O.P.E. Leadership Group, I have spent years working alongside student-athletes in our schools and communities. My mission is to help them navigate the exact path to college readiness, from high school graduation and securing scholarships to thriving at the Division I level. Throughout my journey, I’ve seen firsthand how incredibly talented, hardworking athletes fall short of their dreams. It rarely happens because they lack ability or desire; it happens because they lack the proper structure and supportive guidance. Achieving life-changing goals requires far more than raw talent and will. It requires positive daily habits, academic accountability, and mental clarity (focus), tools that most athletes are never taught. Seeing the vast gap between potential and preparation is exactly why I founded H.O.P.E. Leadership Group.

The H.O.P.E. Leadership Group was built from real experiences, not theory!

Roughly 22% of college freshmen drop out during their first year, and student-athletes are uniquely vulnerable to this transition. The primary breakdown usually isn't physical, financial, or academic—it's mental. Recruiting them to college is only half the battle; our mission at H.O.P.E. Leadership Group is to prepare them mentally to stay.

The Reality

Many athletes say they want to play at the next level.But the numbers tell the truth.

• Only about 6% of high school athletes get to compete in college athletics
• Fewer than 2% of high school athletes will play at the Division I level
• Less than 2% of college athletes go on to play professionally
• More than 22% of college freshmen drop out in their first year

That doesn’t mean it’s impossible!

It means the path is competitive and the difference is not talent alone.
H.O.P.E. Leadership Group exists to close the gap between potential and preparation.We equip student-athletes with the structure, mindset, and accountability systems they need to grow as leaders in the classroom, in their sport, and in life.

We don’t chase scholarships. We build athletes who earn opportunities.

Business Inquiries
H.O.P.E. Leadership Group
7700 Broadway Street, Ste 104
San Antonio, TX 78209
Phone - (830) 243-6800

H.O.P.E. Leadership Group is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
All contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.
EIN: 42-2209615

H.O.P.E. Elite workshop

A focused presentation designed to challenge, educate, and prepare student-athletes.

The H.O.P.E. Elite Workshop is a 60-minute session designed for teams, schools, and athletic organizations that want their student-athletes to better understand the discipline, preparation, and accountability required to pursue opportunities beyond high school athletics. Drawing from personal experience and years of mentoring athletes, Akil Williams speaks candidly about the realities of competing at the next level and the habits that separate prepared from unprepared athletes.

This workshop is ideal for:

• High school athletic programs
• Club teams and athletic organizations
• Middle school and high school teams preparing for the next level
• Pre-season team meetings and leadership development events

Athletes will leave with:

WORKSHOP INVESTMENT
$599 — 60-minute leadership workshop
Recommended for groups of 60 athletes or fewer

• Request a Workshop

Next Step Opportunity

Student-athletes who demonstrate a strong commitment to their development may have the opportunity to continue their growth through the H.O.P.E. Elite Program, where mentorship and accountability continue beyond the workshop.

HABITS OWNERSHIP PURPOSE EXECUTION

h.o.p.e. elite program

A 4-week focused mentorship experience for student-athletes.

While in the Elite Program, Akil Williams works 1-on-1 with the student-athlete through consistent in-person meetings and ongoing communication. The goal is to help athletes better understand the expectations placed on them academically, athletically, and personally as they prepare for future opportunities. Throughout the program, Akil also maintains communication with parents and, when appropriate, works with school staff or coaches to support the athlete’s progression.

Who the H.O.P.E. Elite Program Is For

• Athletes are serious about growth
• Student-athletes committed to discipline and accountability
• Players ready to be coached, challenged, and held to high standards
• Families who value , leadership and support beyond the team environment

Enrollment in the H.O.P.E. Elite Program is intentionally limited to ensure each athlete receives focused mentorship, accountability, and personalized development.

Athletes will leave with:

PROGRAM INVESTMENT
$199 for the full 4-week program and re-enrollment for just $99
Limited to 15 athletes per cohort and up to 3 months

• Apply for H.O.P.E. Elite Program

HABITS OWNERSHIP PURPOSE EXECUTION

Thank you for all your advice and help over the years. You have been a valuable resource to my family throughout his journey. I wish people knew how great you are at what you do. Throughout the process, you start as a friend & become family over the years. Thank you so much!— Willie N., Coach, Athletic Trainer, Entrepreneur & Business Owner

During my time with Mr. Williams. He has gotten me through a lot while working with him. He was a big part of my life that kept me on the right path, no matter what obstacles were thrown my way. He helped me get my first job. He mentored me through times that were tough, dealing with my mom. If it wasn’t for him staying on my heels, I don’t think I would’ve graduated. I thank him more than he knows for always staying on my butt and making sure I was okay. He was the push that I needed.— Shandel N., Former student

Akil Williams is dedicated to his craft, but more so dedicated to making people better. The one word to describe Akil is “RELENTLESS. “
Akil was never happy with mediocre, and pushed athletes and us coaches to be better, do better, and would not stop coaching, preaching, and teaching until perfection was met. He held players accountable through tough love, ultimately making everyone around him better. He is what we call a force multiplier; he makes people better. I am glad to call him a friend— Harrington T., Head Youth Football Coach, Community Leader

“I’ve worked with Akil for 6 years, coaching with the Jr. Broncos, and he’s the real deal. He's a strong leader, consistent, and always shows up ready to make an impact. He’s someone you can trust to execute and bring value to anything he’s a part of.”— David Z., Youth Football Coach, Entrepreneur & Business Owner

Akil, I’ve had the privilege of knowing you since your days as a thriving high school athlete, and it’s been powerful to watch how that same discipline, leadership, and work ethic have evolved into a life of service and impact. Through your leadership with H.O.P.E. Leadership Group, you’ve committed yourself to mentoring young student-athletes and equipping them with the character, accountability, and mindset needed to succeed far beyond the game. Your dedication to developing the next generation and strengthening the community is a true reflection of purpose-driven leadership.— Travis S., Community Leader, Entrepreneur & Business Owner

“Without Akil’s guidance when I was a young adult, I don’t know where I’d be today. Through mentoring and peer counseling programs, he helped improve the school environment and promote peace and understanding in our communities. Bayview High School was a tough school before the VFZ team arrived. Akil Williams is a great mentor, father, and human being. I look forward to working with him to positively impact our communities for years to come.”— Andreus Ramsey
Former student / Youth Football Coach

High school freshmen and sophomore years were a great experience because of Akil. He really helped my friends and me get through the days because he provided the guidance and advice we needed with TLC. He was the person I would go to when I had problems communicating my feelings with others, and or when drama hit the fan (more like a hurricane in a glass, but to my teenage heart, it was earth-shattering). He listened and never made me feel stupid, unless of course I actually did something stupid. Most of the time, he just cheered me on and loved us as his own. Absolutely love this man, don’t think I would be the woman I am today without his guidance during my crucial years!— Daniela R., Former Student, Community Leader

“Having Akil around while I was in school meant a lot. Being able to work with someone who was just as passionate about football and wellness as I was and who was always accessible, motivated me to become a youth advisor myself and help other young people like I once was.”— Daniel M., Former student/Community Member

"Akil was more than just a mentor in high school. He was someone who genuinely cared and looked out for us. His guidance and patience helped shape a lot of the lessons I carried into adulthood. I'm grateful for the impact he had on my life."— Kim V., Former student

My Violence Free Zone mentor Akil was amazing! He always checked in on me, made sure I was having a good day, and gave me great advice when I needed it most. I’m truly grateful for his support, and I’m thankful that we still keep in touch to this day. Has been one of the greatest mentors I’ve ever come across!—Nairobi C., Former student

I had the pleasure of meeting Mr Akil Williams, who coaches our sons for the Brennan Jr. Bears youth football team. For those of you who are not familiar with football in South Texas, it's a religion. The majority of the organizations I have come across have been highly daddy-centric. My son plays football, my son is going to be the star (reliving his " football career" through his child). What I appreciated about this team and coaching staff was the fact that, of course, all of the coaches had Sons on the team, but on this team, it wasn't about the dads; it was about the kids. I said all of that to say this: Akil's son, Makati, wanted not just to play football but to be great. Not only as a football player but as a leader. What was more impressive was that it wasn't Akil pushing his son to play football; it was Makai wanting to be great, and his father provided the support. This man epitomizes what support, strength, and dedication look like. I can't wait to see what Makai does in the future. Be it football, or whatever path life and God take him down. He will be great at it. I know the man who built the foundation that his son is standing on, and I am better for having the privilege to call him a friend.—Howard F, Youth Football Coach/Community Leader

“Akil is kind, loving, and warm-hearted. He always makes you feel like family.”— Maricela I., Community Member

“Akil Williams has always been a big part of my community growing up. From feeding kids at neighborhood cookouts to playing football with the kids in the area, he has always been someone who gives back. He’s also a great father and a positive role model in the community.”— Anthony J., Community Member

Premier Coaches supporting H.O.P.E. Leadership Group

Folklife Festival-Rolling Oaks Mall

Jayden Nelson signed with St. John University (MN)

H.O.P.E Leadership Group and SCUCISD Board Meeting

H.O.P.E. Leadership Group and Tulane University

Siclovia Event-Downtown San Antonio

We’re Not Just Developing Athletes. We’re Building Leaders.

If you believe in building leaders, you can support the mission here.

H.O.P.E. Leadership Group is committed to creating disciplined, accountable student-athletes prepared for life beyond the game. Your support helps us deliver structured leadership development, mentorship, and real-world guidance to the next generation.

Your donation makes a difference, and it's tax-deductible.
H.O.P.E. Leadership Group is a state and federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
All contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.EIN: 42-2209615
Texas Taxpayer Number: 32105685310

• Giving

Dr. Gary Lee Williams, Board President

Dr. Gary Lee Williams serves as President of the H.O.P.E. Leadership Group Board of Directors. An Associate Professor Emeritus at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Dr. Williams has spent his career at the intersection of higher education, urban leadership, and community transformation. As the visionary founder of the African American Youth Summit, a landmark mentorship initiative that has served thousands of students for over 30 years, he brings a proven track record of building programs that change lives at scale. His tenure as Director of the UWM Institute for Intercultural Research and his service as a Commissioner for the Social Development Commission reflect a lifelong commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and improving outcomes for young people. A national pioneer in restorative justice and urban education reform, Dr. Williams brings to this board the kind of institutional knowledge, strategic vision, and moral authority that only comes from decades of doing the work. His leadership as Board President ensures that H.O.P.E. Leadership Group operates with the highest standard of governance, purpose, and community impact.

Marecus Goodloe, Vice President

A prominent figure in the San Antonio youth sports landscape, Marecus Goodloe serves as Vice President of the H.O.P.E. Leadership Group Board of Directors and the primary bridge between the organization and the community it serves. His unwavering commitment to the youth of this community, his tireless efforts in prioritizing the development of our kids, and his genuine support for families across this community speak for themselves. The work he has put in for these kids and this community has never gone unnoticed, and his role on this board is simply the organization catching up to what he has already been doing.

Jessica Warner, Secretary

Jessica Warner serves as Secretary of the H.O.P.E. Leadership Group Board of Directors. A seasoned professional at AT&T, Jessica brings corporate expertise in project management and communications that keeps the organization running with precision and clarity. Her deep roots in the Cibolo community make her an invaluable connection between the organization and the families we serve. Known for her trustworthiness and genuine dedication to the young people around her, Jessica embodies the values that H.O.P.E. Leadership Group was built on.

Kendra Marshall, Treasurer

Kendra Marshall serves as Treasurer of the H.O.P.E. Leadership Group Board of Directors. As an Account Supervisor at JPMorgan Chase & Co., Kendra brings a high level of financial expertise and integrity to the organization, ensuring every dollar entrusted to us is managed with precision and transparency. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kendra has demonstrated a tireless commitment to the student-athletes and families of this community through her volunteer efforts and consistent show of support. Her presence on this board gives H.O.P.E. Leadership Group the financial foundation it needs to grow and sustain its mission for years to come.

James Butler, Member at Large

James Butler serves as Member at Large on the H.O.P.E. Leadership Group Board of Directors. A San Antonio native and proud graduate of Judson High School, James brings a remarkable depth of experience to this role. After serving his country as an Army combat medic, he returned home and dedicated the next chapter of his life to education, spending 13 years at Byron P. Steele High School as an English teacher and coach in football, basketball, and track before rising through the ranks of school administration. He currently serves as Principal in the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District, where his leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student has the potential for greatness. His rare combination of military service, classroom experience, athletic coaching, and executive leadership makes him an extraordinary asset to our board and a living example of the values H.O.P.E. Leadership Group instills in every student-athlete we serve.