Our Story

The inception of the Croom Foundation in 2018 marked a pivotal moment in the life of Executive Director, Kevin Croom, whose unwavering commitment to empowering young men from disadvantaged backgrounds catalyzed a movement that transcends geographical boundaries. Recognizing the urgent need to provide guidance and support to at-risk youth in his community, Kevin embarked on a journey of mentorship, initially engaging with four young men labeled as problematic by societal standards.

Despite facing skepticism and criticism, Kevin remained resolute in his belief that every individual possesses untapped potential, awaiting the right environment to flourish. Through tireless dedication and a steadfast commitment to their growth, Kevin guided these young men towards a path of success, steering them away from the perils of incarceration and premature demise. The transformative impact of Kevin’s mentorship soon reverberated throughout the community, inspiring others to seek his guidance and support. Thus, the seeds of the Croom Foundation were sown, driven by a collective determination to break the cycle of generational poverty and provide equitable opportunities to underprivileged youth.

Since its inception, the Croom Foundation has evolved into a beacon of hope for countless individuals, spanning across Alabama and neighboring states.

What began as a mission to uplift young men has since expanded to include young women, underscoring the foundation’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equality. With a steadfast belief in the power of education and mentorship, the Croom Foundation endeavors to reshape environments and empower individuals to rewrite their narratives. Guided by the motto, “You are a product of your environment until your environment changes,” the foundation remains steadfast in its pursuit of equity and social justice, leveraging its resources to dismantle barriers and foster pathways to success for future generations.

Through strategic partnerships, mentorship programs, and educational initiatives, the Croom Foundation continues to catalyze positive change, laying the groundwork for a future where all youth, regardless of background or circumstance, can realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.

Officer Croom’s dedication to serving his community led him to become APOST and MPOST certified, serving as a patrol officer with distinction in various municipalities. Despite the demanding nature of his profession, Officer Croom remained steadfast in his pursuit of higher education, earning both an associate degree from Hinds Community College and a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Jackson State University, graduating with honors and distinction.

His relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence extended beyond his academic achievements. Officer Croom was a devoted member of the Delta Phi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, and actively participated in various community initiatives and service projects. The Officer Kennis Croom Memorial Scholarship honors Officer Croom’s remarkable legacy by providing financial assistance to deserving students who embody his spirit of dedication, integrity, and commitment to community service.

Through this scholarship, Officer Croom’s memory lives on, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams with courage, compassion, and unwavering determination.

My experience with the foundation has been nothing short of enlightening. Throughout my time spent with the group, it became apparent that the initiatives spearheaded by the foundation were instrumental in equipping students with invaluable tools to navigate the multifaceted landscape beyond academia. The enthusiasm displayed by the students was palpable, and their engagement in discussions reflected a genuine eagerness to learn and grow. One aspect that particularly stood out to me was the foundation's commitment to exposing students to diverse perspectives and ideas. This exposure not only broadened their horizons but also facilitated personal growth and intellectual development. The inclusive environment fostered by the foundation undoubtedly played a pivotal role in nurturing a culture of curiosity and open-mindedness among the students. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly commend the Croom Foundation for its unwavering dedication to empowering college students. Their efforts have undoubtedly made a significant impact on the lives of many, myself included. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of such a transformative experience."

Thanks to the invaluable support provided by the Croom Foundation, my journey through college has been nothing short of transformative. With their assistance, I've been able to pursue higher education with minimal financial burden, opening doors to opportunities that were once beyond my reach. Beyond the financial aid, the foundation has facilitated countless meaningful connections and relationships during my collegiate experience, enriching my life in ways I couldn't have imagined. Moreover, the ongoing support I've received from the Croom Foundation, even after enrolling in college, has been truly remarkable. Knowing that their guidance and assistance are readily available has provided me with a sense of security and confidence as I navigate through the challenges and triumphs of academic life. I am immensely grateful for the unwavering commitment of the Croom Foundation to not only provide financial assistance but also to foster a supportive community that empowers individuals like myself to thrive. Their dedication to making higher education accessible is truly commendable, and I am proud to be a beneficiary of their impactful work.

The support extended by the Croom Foundation transcended mere recruitment assistance. They became a steadfast presence, accompanying us through every step of the process, from scheduling surgeries to supporting JaNya's rehabilitation and accompanying us on college visits. Kevin's father, too, played a significant role, offering words of wisdom and spiritual guidance during pivotal moments. Moreover, the foundation provided invaluable opportunities for JaNya to enhance her basketball skills through workouts and participation in their men's AAU team. Their holistic approach to JaNya's development as a student-athlete has been nothing short of extraordinary. In summary, the Croom Foundation has been a beacon of support and blessings for my family. Through their unwavering dedication and genuine care, they have not only paved the way for JaNya's academic and athletic success but have also become an integral part of our journey. I am immensely grateful for their presence in our lives and the countless opportunities they have facilitated for JaNya's future.

Being associated with the Croom Foundation has undeniably been a pivotal choice for me. Since my initial encounter with Kevin Croom, I have consistently found myself positioned for success under his guidance. His unwavering support and mentorship have not only propelled my endeavors as a basketball player but have also significantly enriched my journey as a college student. Kevin's commitment to identifying and nurturing individuals who may lack equitable opportunities underscores the essence of the Croom Foundation's mission. Undoubtedly, the Foundation stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment for the community of West Alabama, offering a wealth of resources and invaluable connections to those in need.

It was my privilege to address the college students at The University of Alabama on behalf of the College Xperience. Throughout my segment, I found the students to be highly engaged, demonstrating genuine interest and posing insightful questions spanning topics such as my career trajectory in sports public relations to the factors influencing my decision to attend Auburn University. Following the formal presentation, I had the opportunity to engage in one-on-one conversations with the students, an aspect of the event that I particularly valued. These personal interactions allowed for deeper connections and the exchange of individual perspectives. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of speaking at The University of Alabama and interacting with its scholars. I extend my best wishes to each student for their continued success in their academic and professional endeavors.

Kevin Croom, Executive Director of The Croom Foundation, boasts a diverse and illustrious background spanning sports, business, and community engagement. A former standout baseball player in high school, Kevin’s exceptional athletic prowess caught the attention of coaches across the Southeast, earning him a coveted collegiate scholarship. Following his graduation from The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Kevin embarked on a successful career in pharmaceutical sales, where his astute business acumen and dedication to excellence garnered notable achievements.

In addition to his corporate endeavors, Kevin’s passion for writing and public speaking emerged as transformative forces in his life. Leveraging his talents, he has catalyzed positive change in the lives of numerous individuals, collaborating with a spectrum of professionals ranging from Grammy-nominated songwriters to esteemed leaders in academia and Fortune 500 companies. Kevin’s unwavering commitment to community activism is exemplified through his founding and leadership of The Croom Foundation, a non-profit organization renowned for its impactful programs.

Kevin’s multifaceted persona is a testament to his disciplined athletic background, innate talents as a wordsmith and orator, entrepreneurial success, and genuine dedication to fostering positive change in the lives of others. Guided by the principle of “when God blesses you, bless others,” Kevin Croom epitomizes the values of leadership, generosity, and meaningful impact, both in his professional endeavors and personal ethos.

Testimonials

Executive Director

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