Our History
SoulPhamm was established as a nonprofit organization in New Jersey on June 25, 2021, founded by Luis ("Coach Lou") Herrera. Our mission centers on providing young people with comprehensive training in various sports and performing arts, along with opportunities to showcase their talents through competitions and performances.
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We believe in developing well-rounded scholar-athletes by complementing athletic and artistic training with:
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College and career preparation
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Mentoring relationships
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Essential life skills development
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Community service opportunities
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Academic enrichment and support
Though Coach Lou passed away unexpectedly in January 2021, SoulPhamm was officially launched on June 26, 2021, during his birthday weekend and is currently led by his widow, Dr. Leisa Herrera. To honor his life and legacy, we celebrate our founding and our students' achievements annually on the fourth Saturday of June.
Our Vision
Our vision is to foster a community united by virtue, equity, justice, faith, and charity. We strive to develop young people through education, athletics, service, and the arts creating a shared purpose that strengthens the bonds of brotherhood among all people.
Our Mission
Our mission is to transform young lives through integrated artistic and athletic programs that foster academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement.
Our Strategy
We empower our athletes, artists and leaders to achieve the highest standards of professionalism by cultivating skill, confidence, cooperation, leadership, responsibility and character.
We pledge to:
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Exemplify excellence in all endeavors both on and off the field, serving as ambassadors of our first-class sports, arts, education, and service organization.
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Take ownership of our personal preparation, including attendance, punctuality and etiquette, while supporting every member of the SoulPhamm community in meeting these same standards.
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Strengthen self-discipline and focus by consistently developing our individual skills and contributing to the organization's overall quality.
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Bring energy and enthusiasm to every opportunity, approaching each encounter as if it was the "chance of a lifetime".
Our Values
SCHOLARSHIP, HUMANITY, INTEGRITY, EQUITY, LEADERSHIP, DIGNITY (SHIELD).
Scholarship: Strive for scholastic excellence in all endeavors
Humanity: Honor the inherent worth and uniqueness of every person
Integrity: Instill ethical principles through consistent actions
Equity: Ensure fair treatment and access for all individuals
Leadership: Lead by example with vision and responsibility
Dignity: Defend the fundamental respect every person deserves
Daily, we commit to: strengthen scholarship; honor humanity; instill integrity; ensure equity; lead by example; and defend dignity.