DOPE, the history

DOPE, which stands for "Doing Our Part through: Educating, Empowering, & Entertaining," was founded with a clear mission to make a meaningful impact on youth in underserved communities. The organization began with a vision shared by a group of passionate individuals who recognized the challenges faced by these communities, particularly in terms of access to education, economic opportunities, and cultural enrichment.

  • Origins and Inspiration: DOPE was conceived by Sir Will Haggins IV, alongside a dedicated team including David Jackson, Reggie Brown, and Ty Thorpe in Detroit, MI. The founders were united by their commitment to addressing societal inequities and empowering those who have historically been marginalized. They believed in the power of education, empowerment, and entertainment as transformative tools to inspire change and build stronger, more resilient communities.

  • Today: DOPE is organizing small community events and educational workshops aimed at engaging local youth. These events combined entertainment with educational content, creating a unique approach that resonated with participants. The success of these demonstrated the potential for a more structured organization, leading to the official establishment of DOPE as a nonprofit dedicated to serving underserved communities in Dallas, TX.

  • Looking Forward: Today, DOPE continues to grow and evolve, driven by its mission to tackle tough topics in an entertaining environment while educating and empowering. The organization remains committed to expanding its reach, innovating its programs, and advocating for social justice. As DOPE looks to the future, it is poised to continue making a lasting impact, inspiring hope, and creating opportunities for all.

Our DOPE Mission

    • At DOPE, our mission is to "Tackle tough topics in an entertaining environment while educating and empowering!" We are committed to addressing complex societal and economic issues by creating engaging and dynamic experiences that both inform and inspire.

    • We believe that addressing challenging issues is essential for fostering meaningful change. Our approach involves openly discussing and exploring topics that impact underserved communities, such as social justice, economic disparity, and mental health. By confronting these issues head-on, we aim to raise awareness, spark important conversations, and drive collective action toward solutions.

    • Entertainment is a powerful tool for engagement and impact. We use it to create an inviting and stimulating atmosphere where tough topics can be explored in a way that is both accessible and impactful. Through events and creative workshops, we blend education with entertainment to captivate and connect with our audience. This approach not only makes complex subjects more relatable but also encourages active participation and learning.

    • Education is at the core of our mission. We provide comprehensive educational programs designed to equip individuals, especially teens, with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate and overcome challenges. Our workshops, mentoring, and resources cover a wide range of topics, from financial literacy to leadership development, ensuring that participants gain valuable insights and practical tools for personal and professional growth.

    • Empowerment is the ultimate goal of our efforts. We strive to empower individuals by providing them with the support, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive. Our empowerment programs focus on fostering resilience, self-efficacy, and social change. By offering job training, entrepreneurial support, and advocacy for social justice, we help individuals build a foundation for success and make a positive impact in their communities.

    • Our mission reflects a commitment to creating a positive ripple effect in the communities we serve. By tackling tough topics through entertaining and educational experiences, we aim to foster understanding, inspire action, and empower youth to reach their full potential. We envision a world where everyone has the tools and opportunities to address challenges, drive change, and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society.

What is DOPE?

Our DOPE Team

  • Sir Will Haggins IV is the Founder, President, and Creative Director of DOPE, leading the organization since its inception in 2020. With a passion for engaging and empowering youth, he creates innovative programs that blend education, entertainment, and community impact. Outside of DOPE, Sir Will is a Senior Event Producer at Sir4ourth Events, where he curates high-level experiences for major brands. His leadership and creativity drive DOPE’s mission to inspire and uplift underserved communities.

  • David Bellard is the Vice President of DOPE and has served in this role since April 2023. He is the host and founder of the award-winning podcast Black Wealth Renaissance, which focuses on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and wealth-building within the Black community. With a passion for economic empowerment, David uses his platform to educate and inspire others to achieve financial independence. His leadership and expertise in media, branding, and community engagement help drive DOPE’s mission forward, ensuring that young people have access to transformative learning experiences.

  • Myca Williamson is the Treasurer of DOPE, bringing expertise in storytelling, digital marketing, and strategy. With a journalism and MBA background from SMU, she has worked with organizations like Invesco Real Estate and The Dallas Hearing Foundation. A former educator and advocate for entrepreneurs, Myca has served as a funding panelist for the City of Dallas’ Office of Arts & Culture. She now leads Myca Raquel Consulting, helping businesses and nonprofits build trust through strategic storytelling.

  • David Jackson is the Co-Founder and Treasurer of DOPE, playing a key role in the organization’s financial oversight and strategic planning. With no term expiration, he remains committed to ensuring DOPE’s long-term sustainability and impact. Outside of DOPE, David is the President of Blacktree CPA Group, PLLC, where he provides expert financial guidance to businesses and organizations. His dedication to economic empowerment and community development is reflected in both his professional and nonprofit work.

  • Brennen Nelms is the President of DOPE’s Teen Advisory Council. At just 17 years old, he is a standout student-athlete with a 3.6 GPA, excelling in both academics and extracurricular activities. As a varsity track athlete, Brennen has received numerous accolades and recognition from school for his leadership, discipline, and performance. Passionate about sports, music, and community engagement, he plays a key role in shaping DOPE’s youth initiatives, ensuring they remain relevant and impactful for his peers.