Be A Better Me - Helping Young People Recognize Their Potential
Be A Better Me Foundation empowers and encourages children and young people through mentoring, positive role models, and meaningful community experiences. Together, we help young people build confidence, make positive choices, and see the difference they can make in their lives, families, and community.
Serving Canton and Stark County since 2015 · IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) · EIN 81-3380583
Our Mission
Encouragement today. Stronger futures tomorrow.
Our mission is to empower and encourage young people through mentoring, positive role models, and community connection—helping them recognize their potential and make a positive impact in their lives, families, and community.
We believe young people thrive when caring adults show up consistently, recognize their strengths, and give them opportunities to learn, lead, and belong.
Our Impact
Local programs with a wide community reach.
Across mentoring, school-based holiday giving, bike giveaways, recognition programs, and community events, Be A Better Me reaches thousands of children and families each year.
What We Do
Programs that help young people feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
Mentoring
Our Young Boys to Young Men and Young Girls to Young Women Mentoring programs serve young people ages 11–17. Participants build lasting relationships with trusted adults while receiving encouragement, guidance, and opportunities to grow.
Community Events
Events such as our Easter Egg Hunt, annual Golf Outing, and Gala bring neighbors, families, sponsors, and supporters together to celebrate young people and sustain the Foundation’s work.
Bikes & Seasonal Giving
Our Pop-Up Bike Giveaway and holiday initiatives bring joy and practical support to children across the community—from bikes and stockings to special shopping experiences for young people who need extra support.
Recognition and Educational Support
LaMar’s Stars Breakfast recognizes outstanding elementary students from participating schools across Stark County. The Foundation also celebrates graduating seniors and provides selected students with scholarship support.
Mentoring
Relationships that grow over time.
Many participants return to our mentoring programs year after year. Our team stays connected with young people as they progress through school, celebrate milestones, graduate, and move toward college and careers.
Boys to Men
Designed for boys ages 11–17, this program provides structured opportunities for conversation, encouragement, personal growth, and positive connection with adult mentors.
Girls to Women
Designed for girls ages 11–17, this program creates a supportive setting where participants can build confidence, develop relationships, and receive guidance from caring adult mentors.
Corporate Sponsors
Thank you to our community supporters.
Our work is strengthened by local businesses, labor organizations, and community supporters who invest in young people.
Help a Young Person See What is Possible
Your support helps Be A Better Me create mentoring experiences, community celebrations, educational opportunities, and moments of encouragement for children and young people throughout our community.
Be A Better Me Foundation is an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. EIN: 81-3380583. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Be A Better Me Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization. CEO LaMar Sharpe also serves the Canton community through his separate professional role with the Canton Police Department. The Foundation is not a program or agency of the Canton Police Department.