Higher Is Waiting Nonprofit Organization

EMPOWERED 2nd Anniversary Gala

The EMPOWERED 2nd Anniversary Gala is a formal evening celebrating the growth and leadership of EMPOWERED teens. Hosted by Higher Is Waiting Nonprofit Organization and presented by Margier White’s State Farm, this signature event brings together youth, families, and community leaders for a night of inspiration and recognition.

Date: Friday, January 30th, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Doors open at 6:00 PM)
Location: The Gathering Event Center
401 Brodie Rd, Henderson, NC 27536

About EMPOWERED:
EMPOWERED is a teen mentorship and leadership program serving youth ages 13–19 across rural North Carolina. Founded by 17-year-old Minister Jayden A. Watkins, the program provides mentorship, leadership development, career exploration, and community service opportunities to help teens grow with confidence and purpose.

In just two years, EMPOWERED has served hundreds of teens across multiple counties, including Vance, Warren, Granville, and Franklin, distributed hundreds of bookbags and thousands of blessing bags, and connected youth to life-changing leadership and educational opportunities.

Guests will enjoy an elegant dinner, live entertainment, inspirational speakers, and youth recognition awards. More than a celebration, this Gala is an investment in the future of our youth.

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SIGNUP FOR EMPOWERED

EMPOWERED is a dynamic space where youth ages 13–19 gather to deepen their relationship with God and shine as beacons of light in today’s world. We meet at least once a month to strengthen ourselves mentally, spiritually, and as leaders in our community. Members take part in impactful service projects—like creating “Blessing Bags” for those in need—while also engaging in real conversations, leadership development, and meaningful activities that encourage growth in faith and purpose.

This Month’s Presenting Sponsors include: Triangle North Healthcare Foundation, Mattie L’s & Things, LLC and Henderson Family YMCA

📅 Next Meetup Details

Next Meetup Details

Date: Friday, January 23rd, 2026

Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Location: Henderson Family YMCA

380 Ruin Creek Rd, Henderson, NC 27536

Questions? Call (252) 425-0354

Transportation is available for teens.

✨ To attend and officially join the group, please complete the registration form below.

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Mission

Jayden A. Watkins officially incorporated Higher Is Waiting 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization on January 4th, 2024. Higher Is Waiting’s mission is to educate, equip, and empower youth and young adults. The Organization is committed to providing disadvantaged individuals with essential resources, offering mentorship, and hosting programs rooted in moral principles and positive values to foster confidence, personal growth, and community impact.

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Regular Programs

1. EMPOWERED: Teen Mentorship Group

EMPOWERED is a structured teen mentorship and leadership initiative serving youth ages 13–19 in Henderson, NC, and surrounding communities. The program focuses on character development, leadership training, mental wellness, career exploration, and community engagement, while providing a safe and supportive space for teens to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

2. Blessing Bags & Resource Drives

Each quarter Higher Is Waiting assembles and distributes hundreds of “Blessing Bags” filled with toiletries, hygiene products, and food to individuals and families in need—including partnerships with local shelters, churches, and schools. This program gives teens hands-on experience in service and outreach.

3. Quarterly Faith-Based & Leadership Events

From youth revivals to civic engagement workshops, these public events create safe spaces for worship, inspiration, and skill-building. They showcase youth talents, address pressing issues, and unite community leaders, parents, and teens under one roof.

4. Annual Back-to-School Extravaganza

Every August, Higher Is Waiting hosts a large-scale event providing free backpacks and school supplies while spotlighting youth talent to build self-confidence. The 2025 goal was 600+ backpacks, live entertainment, free health screenings and community resource booths.

5. Scholarships & Youth Support

Each year the organization awards scholarships to support students pursuing college, trade programs, or extracurricular enrichment. This includes help with applications, transportation to leadership opportunities, and mentorship in career planning.

Signup To Volunteer

Higher Is Waiting is a youth-led nonprofit rooted in service, dignity, and faith in Henderson, NC.
We mobilize volunteers to meet real needs—clothing support, event operations, meal service, and community outreach.

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Board of Directors

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - Jayden Watkins

BOARD CHAIR - Tem Blackburn

VICE CHAIR OF BOARD - Dr. Shannon Bullock

SECRETARY - Valencia McCoy

ASSISTANT SECRETARY - Katrina Tunstall

TREASURER - Crystal Richardson

BOARD MEMBERS: Victor Clifton and Bratanya Simmons

TV Features

CBS 17 Feature (January 2025) - EMPOWERED's 1st Anniversary

CBS 17 News: EMPOWERED: Teen Bible Study & Mentorship Group celebrates one year of transforming lives! Founded by Jayden Watkins and based in Henderson, NC, this initiative has impacted over 120 teens, providing spiritual growth, mentorship, and essential resources. Help us continue to educate, equip, and empower the next generation. Donate today: https://cash.app/$higherforus1 Email iamjaydenwatkins@gmail.com for more information. #teenleadership #christian #youngleaders #empowered #tvinterview

ABC 11 Feature | July 2024

On the night of Friday, July 26th, 2024 a large group of EMPOWERED teenagers in Henderson, NC gathered together to make more than 100 Blessing Bags for the homeless. Items such as deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, washcloths, body wash, menstrual pads, and socks were included in the Blessing Bags.

Many Henderson community members and organizations donated to this cause. This is just one of the regular projects that they do regularly.

The teens gathered tonight also for their EMPOWERED Bible study and mentorship group meetup. The group was founded by 16-year-old Jayden Watkins, a minister, author and executive director of Higher Is Waiting Nonprofit Organization. Jayden said, “Henderson is a rural community that lacks many resources. Myself and the teens of EMPOWERED aimed to spread hope and be beacons of light”.

CBS 17 Feature (January 2024) - Launch of "EMPOWERED: Teen Bible Study & Mentorship Group"

"God gave me a vision of a large multiracial group of teenagers coming together in North Carolina to evolve as young leaders for Jesus Christ. I present to the WORLD, "EMPOWERED"; a monthly teen Bible study group that will start a revolution! At the launch event, each teenager (13 - 19 years old) received their own personalized bible and study supplies. Each teenager also made "Blessing Bags" filled with hygiene products and winter supplies for the less fortunate. This seemed impossible to put together as a teenager and visionary, but God made it happen!" - Minister Jayden Watkins