Riley's Way Foundation

Riley's Way sees a future where kind leaders build a better world. We empower young people to use kindness, empathy and meaningful connections to drive that change. Riley's Way supports and connects young leaders around the country to become powerful voices and kind leaders in their communities. Our three flagship programs provide teen the tools and support to envision change and achieve it: Riley's Way Councils, the Call for Kindness, and Youth Leadership Retreat. 1) Riley's Way Councils bring together communities of students from different perspectives and supports them in becoming kind leaders. Currently, Councils consist of partnerships between public and private high schools. Council members work directly with a community group to make a different on a social justice issue through the lens of empathy and kindness. 2) The Call for Kindness is a national contest that funds teen-led projects that inspire kindness, strengthen communities, and bring people together. Winners receive up to $5,000 to fund their project and join a cohort of fellows from across the country in the Riley’s Way Kind Leadership Series, comprising mentorship, professional development, and peer-learning. Proposals can be for new projects or ideas that improve or expand existing teen-led initiatives. 3) The Youth Leadership retreat brings together nearly 100 inspirational young women and their mentors from around the country who are kind leaders and change agents in their communities. The weekend in September or October includes leadership skill building sessions, teen-led workshops, mentorship opportunities, and developing a network of like-minded peers. Riley's Way Foundation was established by Mackenzie & Ian Sandler in 2014 in memory of their daughter Riley Hannah Sandler.