The Legacy of The Stephens Foundation!
The Stephens name is a proud inheritance from Derrick Remone Stephens, I. Raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Derrick’s path was shaped by the values instilled in him by his mother, Ruby Joyce. As a single parent of six, Ruby experienced firsthand the discrimination and hardship that Black Americans have endured in this country. Despite these challenges, she raised her children with unwavering dignity, grounded in the belief that faith in God and a commitment to doing good would always prevail.
Derrick carried these lessons forward into every aspect of his life. He began his journey in military service, where he cultivated a deep sense of leadership, discipline, and service. A lifelong public servant, he has dedicated his career to municipal work—ensuring communities have access to clean, healthy drinking water.
Beyond his professional contributions, Derrick is a passionate historian. He teaches his children that history is not just about the past, but a powerful tool to understand the present and confront injustice—especially as a Black American with deep African ancestry.
The Stephens Foundation carries his name with pride—a living tribute to the integrity, work ethic, and community-centered values that Derrick lives by. His commitment to public health, community wellness, and intergenerational education continues through the mission and work of his family's nonprofit.
OUR STORY!
The Stephens Foundation (TSF) is inspired by the life and legacy of Kim Stephens, a woman shaped by resilience, faith, and community. Raised in a home where social capital was valued as much as financial capital, Kim and her four siblings were instilled with the power of faith, service, and connection. Their parents, Nathan and Diane Sweatt, ensured that six days a week, their family was engaged in church and community, fostering a strong foundation of support and spiritual fulfillment. While material wealth was not always present, their home was rich in love, generosity, and collective strength. Today, Kim and her siblings remain committed to continuing this legacy through dedicated community engagement.
Kim co-parented her five children with their father, Derrick Stephens, united in their commitment to instilling values that would shape their children’s future success. As a single parent, Kim quickly recognized the lack of programs offering meaningful, long-term support for families like hers. Fueled by determination, she became deeply involved in community work, forged partnerships with local organizations, and served on the boards of emerging businesses. These experiences inspired her to create a lasting solution—The Stephens Foundation. More than a nonprofit, it is a movement focused on empowering individuals and families by promoting economic stability and social resilience.