Our Story

Video editing by Evan McInnis.

Some things start with a BANG!... Propel Foundation started with a CRASH!

Mickey Woolard, the founder of Propel Foundation, was in Uganda in 2013 to help a team scout out a bicycle expedition. His ride ended abruptly with a crash on the first day. Because he was unable to ride with the team, he spent time in local villages visiting with teachers, directors, and school children. As a teacher himself, he listened intently to their needs and concerns about education in their communities. Mickey spent hours listening, collaborating, and dreaming with a variety of educators about improving education for the children in Uganda.

That time spent was a powerful learning experience for him. He had no idea what education was like in Uganda. Mickey was so impressed and moved, that he came back to the US and established the Propel Foundation on behalf of children, teachers, directors, and community members everywhere who could benefit from financial and collaborative support. The hope was that such support would help them move toward a brighter future. Since that trip in 2013, Propel has grown to provide support for students attending five different private schools in eastern Uganda. While the foundation and its impact continue to grow, the mission stays the same. That mission is to work with communities to address and solve education, nutrition, and health issues so that all individuals can reach their full potential.