At The Von Cleveland Foundation, we believe that true community strength emerges when each individual is EMPOWERED, SUPPORTED, and given the tools to thrive. We are committed to transforming lives and uplifting communities by fostering personal growth, resilience, and positive change.
“Your story isn't written by your setbacks;
it's authored by your comebacks.”
— Sonny Von Cleveland
Welcome to The Von Cleveland Foundation
At The Von Cleveland Foundation, we are dedicated to being a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. Our mission is to empower individuals who have faced marginalization or incarceration, providing them with a path to transformation and opportunity.
The foundation was born from the personal journey of Sonny Von Cleveland. Raised in a small town in Michigan, Sonny’s childhood was marked by profound trauma. From the age of five until he was ten, he endured severe abuse that shattered his innocence and left him with deep emotional scars. Struggling to cope with the aftermath of such horrors, Sonny’s once vibrant and outgoing nature gave way to anger and rebellion. By the age of seven, he was entangled in criminal activities, which led to his first felony charge. His path of struggle continued, resulting in prison sentences at sixteen and again at twenty-one, totaling eighteen years behind bars.
However, it was during the darkest moments of his incarceration that Sonny’s life took a pivotal turn. During 19 months in solitary confinement, he encountered a wise and compassionate Muslim inmate who became his mentor. Through their profound conversations and teachings, Sonny embarked on a transformative journey of self-examination, forgiveness, and personal accountability.
Inspired by his own experiences and the support he received, Sonny founded The Von Cleveland Foundation with a clear mission: to provide those who have faced similar adversities with the tools and support needed to overcome their challenges. Our foundation offers a nurturing environment where individuals can access mindset coaching, personal development resources, and community support—all at no cost.
We are driven by a belief in limitless potential and a commitment to removing barriers. Our focus is on transforming lives, helping individuals shift from self-doubt to self-belief, and paving the way from adversity to achievement. At The Von Cleveland Foundation, we do not see limitations; we see a wellspring of untapped potential waiting to be realized.
OUR VISION
Our vision is bold and clear: to spark a transformative wave that dismantles stereotypes, obliterates self-imposed barriers, and empowers each individual to redefine their story. We believe in a world where your past is not a shackle but a stepping stone to a thriving future, a world where your journey is enriched by every experience.
OUR CORE VALUES
At The Von Cleveland Foundation, our core values of kindness, compassion, authenticity, inclusivity, accountability, and empowerment shape everything we do. These values are not just ideals but the foundation of our approach to empowering individuals from all walks of life.
Kindness: We treat every person with kindness, empathy, and respect. Our aim is to foster a supportive, non-judgmental environment where individuals feel valued and encouraged to grow.
Compassion: We approach our work with deep compassion, understanding the unique challenges faced by those who have experienced financial hardship or incarceration. We offer a safe space for healing and personal development, providing empathy and support throughout their journey.
Authenticity: We value authenticity and encourage individuals to embrace their true selves. We believe that genuine self-expression and vulnerability are crucial for personal transformation and living a fulfilling life. Our environment supports individuals in exploring and honoring their true desires and aspirations.
Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and champion inclusivity in all aspects of our work. We are committed to providing equal access to growth opportunities for everyone, regardless of background. We actively create a welcoming, discrimination-free space where all individuals feel included.
Accountability: We uphold the principle of accountability, holding ourselves and those we support responsible for their actions and growth. We believe that personal and professional development is most effective when there is a commitment to taking ownership of one’s choices and progress.
Empowerment: We are dedicated to empowering individuals to take control of their own lives and destinies. By providing the tools, resources, and support needed, we enable people to build their own paths to success and achieve their fullest potential.
By embodying these core values, we ensure that The Von Cleveland Foundation remains a beacon of hope and empowerment, guiding individuals toward personal and professional success. Guided by Sonny Von Cleveland’s transformative journey, we are committed to supporting each person in redefining their story and reaching their greatest potential.
IGNITING MINDS SPEAKING SYMPOSIUMS
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LITERARY LEGACY PROJECT
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MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS
IGNITING MINDS SPEAKING SYMPOSIUMS - LITERARY LEGACY PROJECT - MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS
At The Von Cleveland Foundation, we offer three key pillars of support designed to empower our clients and strengthen our community: the Literary Legacy Project, the Igniting Minds Speaking Symposium, and the Mentorship Program. Each pillar is crafted to provide valuable resources, inspiration, and guidance to help individuals achieve their fullest potential. Click below to learn more about these initiatives and discover how they can make a meaningful impact in our clients lives.