The Horatio Williams Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2005 by passionate and great leader who always wanted to find a way to give A “SECOND CHANCE”. Our goal is to be lifelong vehicles to helping children become leaders. Our teamwork approach requires every participant to develop trust, build integrity, and give as a servant to our community, while participating in our events and programs.
Horatio Williams is the founder of the Horatio Williams Foundation, a respected business owner, community advocate, and mentor devoted to empowering Detroit’s most vulnerable youth into tomorrow’s leaders. As a father, brother, role model and community advocate, he exemplifies resilience, leadership, and purpose.
Raised by his mother and grandmother on Detroit’s east side, Horatio discovered early life lessons on the playing fields of the Eastside Center and Butzel Middle School. His basketball talent earned him a scholarship to Tuskegee University, but it was Coach Foster, his Eastside Colts mentor, who instilled in him a life-changing philosophy: “With hard work, you can achieve anything, but you must believe in your greatness.”
That belief was tested in college when Horatio survived a near-fatal accident involving a drunk driver. Emerging from a coma and overcoming serious injuries, he fought his way back, demonstrating the same tenacity he had developed as a young athlete.
After his recovery, Horatio entered the non-emergency medical transportation industry, mentored by a business owner who would later help launch his entrepreneurial journey. In 1992, Horatio founded On Time Transportation Inc., which now operates 17 vehicles, has served over 3,000 clients, and has employed more than 40 individuals.
“I went from signing autographs as a college athlete to signing checks that help families,” says Horatio. “While I still miss the game, the opportunity to serve others has been the greatest reward.”
Through his foundation, Horatio continues to lead with purpose, offering mentorship, life skills, and opportunity to youth across Detroit, helping them believe in their greatness too.
Sopheria Perkins is a passionate advocate for youth development, education, and community empowerment. As the Director of Programs and Operations for the Horatio Williams Foundation, she leads initiatives that provide mentorship, leadership training, and educational resources to underserved youth, equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed.
With a background in nonprofit leadership and real estate, Sopheria has dedicated her career to creating opportunities that support young people’s personal and academic growth. She is the founder of Sophia’s Little Leaders, a nonprofit focused on early childhood development, mentorship, and academic success. Through her work, she has helped countless young people access safe spaces, guidance, and support systems that foster resilience and long-term success.
In addition to her work with youth, Sopheria is a realtor and property manager committed to advocating for stable, affordable housing—understanding that a secure home is the foundation for a child’s well-being and future success. She believes in the power of mentorship, education, and community resources to break cycles of poverty and create pathways to opportunity.
Through her leadership, Sopheria continues to inspire and uplift the next generation, ensuring they have the tools and support to reach their full potential.
Alicia is a dynamic professional with a well-rounded background in both corporate America and entrepreneurship. Known for her blend of business acumen and creative energy, she is currently a board member utilizing her skillset with the youth from numerous communities.
Alicia has a strong passion for working with children, teens, and young adults. Her mentorship and guidance have positively impacted many, particularly youth-focused initiatives and educational outreach.
Deeply rooted in her faith, Alicia is actively involved in organizing and participating in summer mentorship programs which expose young people to higher education opportunities and help prepare them for future success.
Her commitment to empowering the next generation is matched by her dedication to fostering growth, leadership, and purpose within the communities she serves.
