About
W.O.N
Williams Outreach Program
At the Williams Outreach Network (WON), a dedicated 501(3)(C) non-profit organization, we aim to ignite curiosity in urban youth through hands-on sustainable agriculture education. Continuing the legacy of Mr. George Williams, who for over 50 years, has provided Philadelphia with fresh fruit and vegetables from his urban farms, we are passionate about fostering self-sufficiency, promoting environmental stewardship, and establishing strong community connections.
We provide enriching experiences for children aged 8-17 in our secure, engaging farm environment. These experiences are designed not only to promote healthy living but also to instill an active appreciation for nature. Our programs guide children in understanding sustainable agriculture, animal care, and food preservation, empowering them to make informed choices and adopt sustainable practices.
Our commitment is twofold. We strive to nurture children's connection to their environment, understanding the inherent value of our natural world. Concurrently, we empower them to become responsible global citizens, equipped with knowledge and skills that will serve them well into the future.
With the invaluable support of donors like you, we're enhancing the lives of urban youth, shaping a brighter, greener future one transformative farm experience at a time. We believe that when we work together as a community, we create a ripple effect of positive change. Remember, "We all win when we work as WON".
Get Involved
We're set on introducing urban youth to the hands-on world of sustainable agriculture education. Children aged 8-17 from Philadelphia join us in the Poconos, where they learn the solid virtues of self-reliance, respect for the environment, and the value of community ties.
Our programs, true to Mr. Williams' vision, promote healthy living, sustainable agriculture, animal care, and food preservation.
Our aim? To equip Philadelphia's young with practical knowledge and a connection to their roots.
While our heart remains in Philadelphia, we hope to, in time, reach further. Our vision includes forging partnerships with organizations beyond our borders, sharing resources and knowledge to benefit more young minds.
It's thanks to the continued support from individuals like you that we can work towards this vision. And as we continue this journey, we're ever mindful of our guiding principle:
"We all win when we work as WON."
Our commitment is to ensure every child, in Philadelphia and beyond, receives the foundational education they deserve.
Team WON
Mr. George Lamont Williams - Visionary / Patriarch
Mr. George Lamont Williams has long been a pillar of hard work and community engagement, with roots deeply set in Harrisburg, PA, and North Philadelphia. Early in life, his interests leaned toward the outdoors - he loved fishing, farming, and swimming, skills he picked up from summer visits to relatives in New Jersey. At 13, he worked on a blueberry farm in Hamilton, New Jersey, displaying remarkable initiative and diligence. Joining the Cherry Point Marines in 1959, he trained as an electrician, a skill that dovetailed into his entrepreneurial ventures that started in 1973. Since the 1960s, he's been a familiar figure in North Philadelphia, providing food and fostering a sense of community. The creation of the Williams Outreach Network (WON) by his children, Dulcinea and George Jr., was a testament to his influence. After losing George Jr., Mr. Williams remains hopeful that WON can continue to inspire and uplift Philadelphia's children, mirroring his lifelong commitment to community and unity
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Chris Benson-El - Spokesman/Program Director
With a rich tapestry of experiences and achievements, Chris Benson-El serves as an essential figure at WON. His academic background, a B.A. from Cheyney University in Recreation Leisure Management with a minor in Psychology, establishes his foundation in community engagement. Chris’s contributions to the School District of Philadelphia and the GUYTALK initiative at Sayre High School highlight his dedication to education and youth mentorship. A significant part of Chris's life revolves around promoting holistic health. Trained by Dr. Wyatt, he’s spent nearly two decades offering herbal advice and supplements in Philadelphia, further evidenced by his venture, the H4 supplement company. Chris’s interest in martial arts has imbued him with discipline and focus. His role as a certified beekeeper showcases his patience and respect for nature. As an LPN for the past eight years and with his diverse background in herbal medicine, entrepreneurship, martial arts, and community service, Chris is a perfect fit as WON's spokesman, driving its mission with authenticity and dedication.
Ms. Dulcinea Williams - Founder / Chairman of the Board
Ms. Dulcinea Williams plays a central role in the Williams Outreach Network (WON). Inspired by her father, Mr. George Lamont Williams, and her shared ambitions with her brother, George Jr., she sought to cultivate their shared vision into WON. Following her brother's passing, Dulcinea placed even greater emphasis on WON’s mission. Aside from her commitment to WON, Dulcinea is an accomplished entrepreneur with interests spanning real estate, consulting, and lodging. Additionally, she is at the helm of Harmonious Life Systems (HLS), where she offers support to adults navigating mental health challenges. Her master's degree from Springfield College in mental health counseling is a testament to her dedication. Through WON, Dulcinea continues to champion the values of self-reliance and community collaboration, inspired by her family's legacy.
J. El - Executive Director
A proud Philadelphia native, “J” continues to reside in the Greater Philadelphia region, staying deeply connected to the community that raised him. He has channeled his passion for his hometown into his role as the Executive Director of the Williams Outreach Network. With extensive consulting experience under his belt, J.El has been leveraging his skills to empower and uplift Philadelphia's youth. At WON, he is instrumental in steering the organization's strategic direction, establishing transformative partnerships, and rolling out initiatives aimed at fostering personal growth and community engagement. Guided by a profound sense of purpose and commitment to his roots, J.El is dedicated to ensuring that WON leaves a positive, lasting impact on the lives of the young people they serve, aiming to shape a brighter future for the entire community.
