History & Background
W.I.S.E Way's journey began as the #WeBall4Destin Foundation in 2016, founded by Mariel "Cooper" Wise, then an NFL rookie, in honor of his late brother, Destin, who tragically passed away in a car accident in 2015. Over seven years, #WeBall4Destin made a profound impact in Sumter County, SC, providing over $30,000 in scholarships, event sponsorships, and charitable donations.
The impactful initiatives of #WeBall4Destin did not go unnoticed, as the foundation garnered recognition from both local and national media outlets, including NFL Network, WLTX News 19, and The State Newspaper. In 207, #WeBall4Destin was honored with the Aflac Midlands Gives Award for its outstanding contributions to the community.
In 2023, #WeBall4Destin expanded to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and rebranded as W.I.S.E Way, extending its mission to empower student athletes and underserved youth. Today, W.I.S.E Way continues to provide mentorship, wellness education, and career-focused programs, helping young people succeed in sports, academics, and life beyond the game.
Today, W.I.S.E Way continues its mission of empowering minority communities through athletics and education initiatives. Our dedication to inspiring a culture of excellence that values diversity and cultivates tomorrow's leaders remains unwavering.
TESTIMONIALS
Yanah Lucus - Benedict College (2019 Scholarship Award Winner)
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The Destin Wise Scholarship has helped me in many ways through my first semester of college. I knew that transitioning to college would be difficult. Being in a new and different environment was something that I knew was going to take time to get used too. The foundation and my mentor helped eased my mind in different ways. Being able to text and call whenever I wanted helped me out a lot. I was checked on at least every two weeks by my mentor to see how I was adjusting and holding up as a new college student. I was given a gift basket full of goodies to last me for a little while. That really came in handy, and I was very appreciative. The stipend and winning this scholarship are just a blessing. The foundation just show a mass amount of love and I wouldn’t want it any other way. I’m blessed to be able to represent this foundation.
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Abraham Temoney III - Erskine College (2019 Scholarship Award Winner)
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"The Destin Wise Scholarship has greatly benefited me during my first semester. It helped me to be able to purchase books as well as anything else that I needed. The basket had many necessities that I found helpful and were able to make great use of. Also being able to talk to my mentor (Mariel) about anything at anytime really helped to know I had someone rooting for me. Thank you all for everything!"
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Niaya Singleton - USC Upstate (2017 Scholarship Award Winner)
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"This scholarship has been nothing but beneficial to me as far as having those funds for school purchases as well as personal necessities and the occasional fast food meal in between studying. After paying tuition, my funds are little to none. However, with this scholarship I was able to keep enough funds in my account to get by each month. The gift basket given to me before I started school in August was also greatly appreciated. The items contained in the basket were plenty, and lasted me until the start of this semester. It was a great way of allowing me to have what I need and learn exactly what to get for next semester. I thank each and every individual that had a part in providing me with everything. There is nothing i can complain about what you all are doing. I appreciate everything."
"DO IT BIG"