See the individual
Different children need different pathways, supports and measures of progress.
One authentic origin
Born from a father’s journey. Built for many.
The LEADER Foundation began with a practical question: what could youth development become if athletic performance, education, health knowledge, leadership and opportunity worked as one system?
Douglas R. Gillespie, MSN, RNFounder, President & Chief Executive Officer · United States Army Veteran · MBA Candidate
Why it began
Three sons. Different strengths. One lesson.
As a father developing his own children, Douglas saw that young people should not be judged only against a fixed standard. The better question is whether each athlete is growing from his or her own starting point—and receiving the access needed to keep growing.
LAB³ honors Luke, Austin and Blake while expressing a broader truth: development multiplies when performance, education and leadership reinforce one another.
Experience into service
A mission shaped by care, leadership and responsibility.
Serve beyond self
Army service established discipline, responsibility and commitment to the team.
Access changes outcomes
Healthcare leadership reinforced the value of prevention, education and connected systems.
Foundation record
Officially incorporated in Georgia.
The LEADER Athlete Development Foundation, Inc. was incorporated as a Georgia domestic nonprofit corporation on August 21, 2026.
View Our Georgia Incorporation CertificatePublic copy with personal address information redacted for privacy.