About the Nelson Foundation...
The Nelson Foundation is dedicated to empowering and mentoring youth and young adults, by providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed in life. Through mentorship, consulting, social-emotional learning programs, and entrepreneurship guidance, we help individuals develop essential life skills, navigate challenges, and explore career opportunities.
We serve youth and young adults throughout NJ & Philadelphia, with a focus on those in at-risk environments, and those impacted by systemic challenges. Our programs also extend to incarcerated & formerly incarcerated individuals, providing them with re-entry support, career guidance, and personal development resources.
We partner with a network of professionals, educators, and leaders who contribute their expertise to support our mentees.
The Nelson Foundation has been actively serving the community since 2020, building on years of mentorship and community outreach.
Our 5 Core values are:
Empowerment – Giving individuals the confidence and skills to take control of their futures.
Integrity – Leading by example with honesty and strong moral principles.
Leadership – Teaching responsibility and accountability to create strong, positive leaders.
Community – Building a network of support to uplift and create lasting change.
Education & Growth – Providing knowledge and resources to help individuals evolve beyond their circumstances.
Our Founder
Antoine Nelson is a credible messenger with 17 years of mentorship experience, using his lived experiences and professional expertise to uplift underserved communities. With a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice & Sociology from Rutgers University, he has worked extensively in youth development, reintegration efforts, and entrepreneurship.
Mentorship & Youth Advocacy
17 years as a mentor, facilitating classes in NJ & PA schools.
Founder & President of Sons of Someone, Inc., mentoring youth for over a decade.
Has worked in homeless shelters, youth boot camps, and correctional facilities.
Led mission retreats and expanded youth perspectives through travel.
Reintegration & Workforce Development
Supports returning citizens in Camden, Newark, and Kearny with employment and education.
Uses his personal experience overcoming legal struggles to connect with at-risk youth.
Entrepreneurship & Career Readiness
Since 2020, has organized community Pop-Up Shops to showcase local businesses.
Provides entrepreneurship guidance and financial literacy education.
Since 2019, has led high school students on college tours, including an annual HBCU tour.
Community Leadership
Antoine is a mentor, educator, and advocate, dedicated to empowering youth and returning citizens through mentorship, education, and entrepreneurship, helping them build stronger futures.
Antoine Nelson
founder & executive director
Passionate mentor and educator, dedicated to youth development and social-emotional learning.
Our mission
Our mission is to guide, inspire, and equip young individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to break cycles, build successful futures, and become leaders in their communities.
At The Nelson Foundation, we live by the motto: "Hustle. Educate. Motivate."
Hustle – Master your craft and secure your future by creating opportunities for yourself.
Educate – Gain the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate life successfully.
Motivate – Inspire and uplift others to push past their obstacles and reach their full potential.
By following this mindset, we empower individuals to take control of their destinies, build strong foundations, and create lasting change in their communities.
