Our Mission
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to provide love, support, and opportunities to young women and girls at critical turning points in their lives We fulfil this mission by offering academic, social, and athletic programs that help girls make positive choices and build bright futures. By facilitating mentorship, educational support, and life-skills training, we create safe spaces for girls to grow. Ultimately, we aim to bridge the opportunity gap and show every young woman that her dreams are within reach.
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Our Vision
We envision a future where no girl is limited by her circumstances, and “no gray areas” exist between a girl’s potential and her success. In this future, every young woman has the tools, confidence, and community support to achieve her full potential. While No Gray Areas started in California, we are growing into a movement without borders – reaching girls across the nation and even internationally. By creating a sisterhood of support and opportunity, we strive to break cycles of poverty and inequality. Our ultimate goal is a world in which every girl can boldly pursue her passions and become a leader in her community.
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Our Values
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Empowerment: We believe in lifting others up. All our programs focus on empowering girls – building their confidence, voice, and leadership skills – so they can take charge of their own futures.
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Opportunity: We are committed to creating opportunities where none exist. Whether it’s a scholarship, an internship, or a sports clinic, we open doors for girls to explore their talents and ambitions.
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Community: It takes a village. We foster a supportive community and sisterhood among our girls. They learn to support each other and give back, creating a positive ripple effect in their neighborhoods.
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Compassion: Love and understanding drive us. Many of the girls we serve come from challenging backgrounds, so we approach every interaction with empathy, kindness, and respect.
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Integrity: We hold ourselves accountable and operate with transparency. Trust is the foundation of our work – we ensure that we honor our promises to the girls, our volunteers, and our donors.
RESHANDA GRAY
FOUNDER
Reshanda Gray’s Journey – From South Central LA to WNBA Star and Changemaker: Reshanda Gray grew up in South Central Los Angeles, an environment plagued by drugs, violence, and instability. As a child, she often faced what she calls the “gray areas” – those tough moments of indecision and hardship that could have led her down the wrong path. What made the difference in Reshanda’s life were the after-school programs and mentors who became her safe haven. “After-school programs were my escape,” Reshanda recalls. “They introduced me to positive role models who saw my potential beyond my circumstances.” With the encouragement of those mentors, Reshanda excelled at basketball and academics, earning a scholarship to UC Berkeley and eventually a career in the WNBA.
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Despite her athletic success, Reshanda never forgot the neighborhood and the girls she left behind. In 2017, while still playing professional basketball, she founded No Gray Areas as a way to pay forward the support she received. The name “No Gray Areas” reflects Reshanda’s personal philosophy: in life’s critical choices, she urges girls to choose a clear path toward excellence and not remain stuck in uncertainty. “My purpose is to help young girls grow academically, athletically, and socially because I believe all three are intertwined,” Reshanda often says. She understands that sometimes a young person can feel “in between” – unsure whether to stay in school, avoid negative influences, or pursue a goal. Through NGA, Reshanda mentors girls through those very decisions, showing them that even though she faces gray areas at times, but with guidance and faith, they can overcome them.
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Today, Reshanda Gray leads No Gray Areas with the same passion she brings to the basketball court. When she’s not playing for the WNBA, you’ll find her visiting schools, hosting workshops, and even jumping on Zoom calls with the girls to help them set goals. Her story – from a homeless youth to a pro athlete and college graduate – inspires every aspect of NGA. Reshanda’s message to each girl is clear: “I was once in your shoes. People helped me believe in myself. Now I’m here to help you believe in yourself.” Under her leadership, No Gray Areas has transformed from a personal mission into a growing community movement that continues to change lives one girl at a time.
Our Team & Board of Directors
Behind No Gray Areas is a dedicated team that shares Reshanda’s vision. Our Board of Directors and staff include educators, community leaders, professionals, and volunteers who are passionate about empowering youth. Many have personal ties to the communities we serve and bring a wealth of experience in education, sports, and non-profit management. Together, this team ensures that NGA’s programs are effective, sustainable, and true to our mission. We believe in leading by example – our board members and volunteers regularly mentor the girls and participate in events. This hands-on approach keeps us connected to the community and accountable to those we serve. Meet the faces behind NGA on our Team page, and learn why each of us is committed to making “no gray areas” for young women seeking a brighter future.
RESHANDA GRAY
MARISSA BLACKSHIRE
