About Us
Bull City B.E.S.T. is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit in Durham, NC founded by Meghan & Christopher Wilder, Sr. Meghan, a native of Newburgh, NY, is a 13 year educator in Durham Public Schools. During her years in education she realized that there was a great need and opportunity for programs in both the schools as well as the community that focused on the arts. Growing up studying dance while attending Hudson Valley Conservatory inspired and shaped her life’s journey in ways that continue to positively affect her today. This fostered her desire to establish a program that would provide the same types of exposure in the Arts to our youth in Durham.
In 2009 Meghan met her husband, Christopher Wilder, Sr. Chris, a native of Durham, NC also shares a strong appreciation for the Arts. Growing up in Durham, he attended John Avery Boys & Girls Club which allowed him to participate in so many amazing programs in the local community and the Boys & Girls Club community. At a very young age Chris developed a love for basketball which he has played or been involved with as a coach or parent throughout his life. Chris’ favorite message to relay to young athletes is how much basketball has given him and exposed him too. You will often hear him saying that he’s still friends with some of the first people he ever played basketball with.
As parents of student athletes and involved members of the local community, Meghan & Chris witnessed first hand the need for change that birthed Bull City B.E.S.T. Their goal was to establish and provide a program where the Arts are represented passionately and creatives were empowered to express themselves. A program where sports are about shaping the lives of our young “STUDENT” athletes while affording them the opportunity to grow and have fun. Our programs and opportunities focus on building well rounded, high character youth who understand that they must work to achieve their life goals.
With our Building Bridges initiative, Annie Project, B.E.S.T. Ballers and Kunst programs we are committed to Building, Educating and Strengthening the youth in Durham Together.
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Our Mission
"Our mission is to build, educate, and strengthen communities together through academics, sports, and arts. We believe in the holistic development of individuals and the power of interdisciplinary experiences to shape well-rounded individuals. Through our comprehensive programs, initiatives, and partnerships, we aim to provide opportunities for academic excellence, athletic achievement, and artistic expression. We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that nurtures intellectual curiosity, physical well-being, and creative exploration. By promoting the integration of academics, sports, and arts, we seek to empower individuals to reach their highest potential in all aspects of their lives. Together, we are building a community where education, sports, and the arts come together to inspire, enrich, and transform lives, creating a brighter and more harmonious future for all."
Our Vision
We envision a generation of young individuals in Durham who are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to shape a brighter future for themselves and their community. Together, we strive to inspire, empower, and uplift the youth of Durham, creating a stronger and more vibrant tomorrow."