Maryland Nonprofit WillPower Unleashed Launches First Annual Fundraiser, Raising Support for Mentoring, Summer Camps, and Community Outreach
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bel Air, Maryland — The energy, passion, and generosity of the community were on full display as WillPower Unleashed hosted its first annual fundraiser of 2026, marking the beginning of what leaders say will become a powerful yearly tradition dedicated to transforming the lives of young people across Maryland.
Held before an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 100 supporters, the event raised over $2,000 to support the nonprofit’s growing mission of mentoring young men, providing community outreach, and building pathways to opportunity for youth throughout local public schools.
At the heart of the evening was the vision of Executive Director Will Howard, who passionately shared the organization’s plan to create meaningful change in the lives of young people. Howard outlined a bold community impact strategy that includes high-impact summer camps for students, designed to be both fun and educational, giving youth a safe environment to learn leadership, discipline, and life skills.
Beyond mentoring and camps, the organization also revealed plans for expanded community outreach programs throughout the year, including:
Monthly food giveaways for families facing hardship
Large Thanksgiving food drives serving local communities
Christmas gift drives ensuring that at-risk youth and families experience the joy of the holidays
“These programs are about more than services—they’re about showing young people that their community believes in them,” Howard said.
During the event, Board President Jess Bousa shared the organization’s goals for 2026 and the resources needed to bring the vision to life. Among the top priorities is purchasing a passenger van that will allow volunteers to safely transport students to mentorship programs, community events, and summer camps.
Bousa also delivered a deeply personal testimony about how mentoring changed the course of his own life. Once homeless and struggling with addiction, Bousa shared how the presence of caring mentors helped him rebuild his life, eventually leading him from the streets to attending Harvard and maintaining over two decades of sobriety.
“Mentorship can change the trajectory of a life,” Bousa told attendees. “When someone believes in you before you believe in yourself, everything changes.”
The evening was made possible through the efforts of a dedicated team of volunteers and community partners. Organizers recognized the leadership and support of volunteers including Max, Rashad, Jessica Bousa (also a board member), Caleb Bousa, and countless others who helped bake desserts, set up the event space, welcome guests, and handle teardown after the event.
A special highlight of the evening came from Sweet Kings, whose owner Max arrived with a brand-new dessert trailer, generously giving away sweet treats to every guest in attendance and adding a festive touch to the celebration.
Attendees also participated in a lively raffle featuring nearly 15 themed baskets, along with a live auction that generated additional excitement and support for the cause. Among the most popular auction items were two vacation stays donated by Bousa Properties, offering winners a relaxing getaway at a Lewes, Delaware condominium overlooking the Rehoboth Bay.
The success of the first annual fundraiser reflects a growing movement of community members committed to investing in the next generation.
Leaders say the event is only the beginning.
“With the support of our community, we are building something that will impact young lives for generations,” Howard said. “This is just the start of what WillPower Unleashed will accomplish.”
Community members interested in supporting the mission, volunteering, or donating can learn more by visiting:
https://willpowerunleashed.com/
About WillPower Unleashed
WillPower Unleashed is a Maryland-based nonprofit organization dedicated to mentoring young men, providing leadership development opportunities, and strengthening communities through educational programs, youth mentorship, summer camps, and community outreach initiatives. The organization partners with local schools and community leaders to help young people build character, confidence, and a vision for a brighter future.