Karen Levingston-Franklin

Since April 1990, we have been extremely committed and humbled to serve as an ambassador in building and cultivating the next generation of leaders, and business owners. Transforming Lives, and Empowering Communities is the cornerstone of my foundation! 

Celebrating WYF’s incredible 33-year milestone is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our board members, devoted executive team, enthusiastic volunteers, and dynamic partners. Your collective efforts have not only propelled us but also positioned us at this significant point in our journey.  

For over three decades, Karen’s a seasoned leader and professional in the public and private sector providing innovative solutions promoting fundraising, fund development, donor relations, public relations/marketing, and the utilization of certified disadvantaged, minority, women, and small businesses within the public – private sector industries. She serves with the City of Houston, Housing, and Community Development Department, and had served private entities including McDonald’s Corporation, World Youth Foundation, Inc., Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, and World Youth Foundation Enterprises. 

The World Youth Foundation, Inc. is a champion that is committed & vested in preparing our youth for sustainable livelihoods in today’s economy. Knowing that empowering youth builds resilience, character, integrity, and wisdom while fostering and enabling opportunities to bring the world to them through project-based learning. At the same time, it fosters engagement and helps them to become healthy and productive members of their communities.  

Our mission is to “Empower Every Youth to Win in Life Against All Odds”. We achieve our mission by providing cost-free out-of-school time programs that empower youth to unlock their innate gifts and potential to gain a competitive advantage in life. Our approach focuses on nurturing the whole individual – their mind, body, and character – ensuring holistic growth and development. This includes developing strong physical and mental well-being, positive morals and personal values, durable (soft) skills, and digital mastery. 

Our vision is to see every youth succeed and thrive in our advancing digital economy regardless of their ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic background. Our partners enable us to continue building and scaling pathways that ensure equal access to opportunities, fostering meaningful and high-paying careers for all, particularly those who have historically been marginalized due to systemic inequities.

In addition, she’s a business owner at Evelyn’s Spice Bakery where she creates and designs delectable treats that serve the community and those in need. She manages a team of volunteers, partners, and advocates on local, state, federal, and global projects. Her unique style of assessing, evaluating, and deploying strategies has garnered a reputation for making the impossible possible.

With many professional accolades outside the home, some are surprised to learn Karen loves the domestic side of life, too. She enjoys cleaning, cooking, and spending time with her family. Karen doesn’t see her journey as unique but appreciates her ability to keep life simple. Her SUPERLady Shine award is most obvious when she’s busy helping others discover their value and take risks to transform their lives.