Perhaps you’re familiar with her as the founder and organizer of Barbers & Books, an annual success story at James Mathews Elementary. That program champions literacy, mentorship and personal growth and even provides free haircuts.
Driven by her vision, Nikita Richardson has launched RichKrew Inc., a nonprofit in Southeast Arkansas. The organization’s goal is to redefine possibilities for high school seniors, equipping them with the confidence and skills necessary to forge their own successful futures. Richardson, a native of Altheimer, says RichKrew Inc. is a testament to the power of personal experience and the impact of dedicated mentorship.
“I struggled to find direction after high school,” Richardson said, “and it was a life-changing encounter with my godmother that led me to social work. RichKrew is my way of being that same support for others, ensuring no young person feels lost on their journey.”
The organization’s flagship initiative, Pathways to Life, launched in October 2024, providing six high school seniors from Jefferson and Grant counties with an immersive program focused on career readiness, financial literacy, professionalism and personal development.
The journey began with a pinning ceremony where parents formally committed their students to the program and their career goals. Monthly sessions followed, featuring insights from leaders at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, the Arkansas Department of Health, Entergy and FBT Bank, creating moments of growth and inspiration. These sessions have already borne fruit, with each student committing to higher education or a specific career path: Amiya Laws of White Hall High School (University of Central Arkansas, nursing), Robert Barnes IV of White Hall (Arkansas State University, pre-vet), Aniyah Alexander of Watson Chapel High School (Air Force/University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, political science), Taleah Hull of Watson Chapel High School (AR Career Development Center, culinary arts), Luke Allred of Sheridan High School (Pulaski Technical College, lineman training) and Jaylon Savage of Pine Bluff High School (UAPB, industrial technology). These young leaders were recognized at the end-of-year celebration on May 30 at the Pine Bluff Library.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
One of the most impactful sessions, “Rich Independence,” brought in community leaders and individuals with lived experiences to discuss decision-making and consequences. Representatives from the Arkansas Department of Corrections, including Parole Officer Erika Ross and Correctional Officer Joe Alexander Jr., shared their perspectives. Parents Dedrick Cross and Dawn Fuller offered a poignant look at the emotional side of supporting a child involved with the justice system, while Marquis Deshazier shared his journey from incarceration to transformation.
“This session was raw, real and deeply impactful,” Richardson said. “We are so thankful to everyone who showed up, spoke up and gave their truth to help shape our future leaders.”
Another crucial component of Pathways to Life is financial literacy. In April, the “Rich Money Management” session, hosted by Latasha McNeely Randle at FBT Bank & Mortgage, provided students with a realistic understanding of managing finances. One of the most significant lessons Hull said she learned was effective money management.
“My favorite course was learning how to manage money because I’m terrible with money,” she said. “I’ve spent my check in one day and am broke and hungry.”
“Ms. Randle gave real-life scenarios and brought the truth with grace and love,” Richardson said. “By the end of the session, the students walked away with a new understanding: ‘It takes money to live comfortably and smart decisions to keep it.'”
When asked about her favorite session, Laws recalled that her favorite was tobacco prevention and sex education. As a recent graduate of the RichKrew Inc. program who also serves as the organization’s president, she shared her experience with the program, highlighting its role in preparing her for adulthood.
“My experience was wonderful,” she said. “I got so many opportunities that I didn’t think never that I was going to be able to get. … It pushes you to your limits, to make sure that you’re prepared to answer adulthood, you know what you’re doing and you have everything that you need.”
Launching a nonprofit has its challenges, particularly during fiscal year-end, but Richardson’s resilience and belief in her mission have prevailed. “I’ve experienced firsthand the importance of trust and relationship-building in this space,” she shared. “But despite the struggles, I am proud of the commitment and faith that have carried me through.”
RichKrew Inc. is already looking to the future with upcoming programs like RichHer, a girls’ empowerment program for grades 6-8, and continuing Books & Barbers under the RichKrew Inc. brand. The organization recently received a Spark Good local grant from Walmart Pine Bluff, which will further support the Pathways to Life program. Richardson’s dedication stems from a personal connection to her roots. “Altheimer raised me, and it birthed something good,” she affirms. “RichKrew Inc. stands as a powerful testimony and my commitment to the community and the next generation.”
Laws offered words of encouragement for Richardson, saying, “Continue to grow it. Be loving and just keep doing your thing, you’re doing wonderful, and I just know this is going to continue to grow and be a big thing.”
To support RichKrew’s vital mission and help cultivate the leaders of tomorrow, Richardson said, donations and partnerships are welcome.
For more information, Richardson can be contacted at therichkrew@yahoo.com.
