About us
At Shine the Light, Inc., we believe that every child carries a light within them—an untapped potential waiting to shine. We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a supportive community for kids and teens from all walks of life, no matter their background or circumstances.
At the heart of our mission is personal growth through boxing—a powerful tool for building discipline, confidence, and resilience. Our space isn’t just a gym; it’s a haven where young people can develop life skills, find encouragement, and discover their inner strength.
Whether they’re stepping into the ring or connecting with mentors and peers, we provide an environment where kids are seen, supported, and empowered to become their best selves. By creating this space, we give them the tools to not only succeed in boxing but to shine brightly in every area of their lives.
Join us as we help shape a brighter future, one child at a time.
“…Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Our program offers:
A range of impactful features designed to support and empower our community. From structured boxing training and mentorship programs to academic support and community outreach, we provide a well-rounded experience that fosters discipline, confidence, and personal growth.
Hands on boxing training
Provides structured, real-world experience in the sport. Participants learn proper technique, conditioning, and discipline through guided coaching, drills, and sparring. Whether beginners or experienced fighters, everyone benefits from personalized instruction that builds strength, confidence, and resilience in and out of the ring.
Personal mentorship
Connects kids with experienced coaches and mentors who provide guidance, support, and encouragement. Through one-on-one coaching and life skills development, we help individuals build confidence, set goals, and overcome challenges—both in boxing and in life.
Academic support
Ensures that kids succeed both in and out of the ring. We provide tutoring, study resources, and after school meals to help students stay on track with their education, develop strong study habits, and work toward their future goals.
Community outreach
Connects kids with local events, volunteer opportunities, and positive role models. By giving back and building strong relationships, we help create a supportive environment where everyone can grow together and make a real difference in the community.
Support Our Mission: Your Donation Makes a Difference
Every contribution, big or small, empowers young individuals to grow, succeed, and create positive change in their lives and communities.
How Your Donation Helps
Your donation will support after-school meals for kids, cover boxing memberships, provide essential boxing equipment, fund travel expenses, and enhance tutoring programs to ensure every child has the resources they need to succeed.
Sponsorship Packages:
Through our sponsor packages, you’ll help a child continue their growth in boxing and life, covering essentials like boxing memberships, uniforms, shoes, headgear, and gloves.
Yearly donation amount per child:
$500 will cover one full year of membership costs
$90 will cover a yearly competition passport-ensuring the ability to travel for tournaments
$500 will cover of one full year of uniform, shoes, headgear, and boxing gloves costs
Sponsor a young boxer:
$1,500 once a year will provide all necessary costs for one child apart of our community
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Braxton Carter
Founder&president
The driving force behind Shine the Light. Dedicated to empowering youth and underserved communities through the discipline, confidence, and resilience that boxing instills. Giving mentorship through his expertise as a boxer and experienced coach.
Gracie Monks
Secretary&board member
Serves as the Secretary for Shine the Light, playing a key role in keeping the organization running smoothly. Accomplishing this with a passion for community outreach and dedication to providing support to the mission.
Founder’s Club
Testimonies
Braxton Carter
Braxton grew up in the projects of Louisville, Kentucky, where he faced countless challenges from an early age. In his early 20s, he spent most of his time incarcerated, caught in a cycle that many struggle to break. But everything changed when he found boxing. The sport became more than just a physical outlet—it gave him discipline, focus, and a path forward.
Determined to build a better future, he went back to school and earned his degree in Business Administration. For the past six years, he has been coaching, using his experiences to mentor and guide others both in and out of the ring. Now, as the owner of his own boxing gym, he is dedicated to more than just training fighters. His goal is to expand, create youth intervention programs, and give back to the community that shaped him—proving that with the right support and opportunities, anyone can turn their life around. As he always says “In this life, everyone owes.”
Jordan Chairez
I grew up moving around a lot, but I spent most of my time in the south end of Louisville. I experienced significant trauma in my childhood and placed in many unstable environments. This took a toll on me mentally and emotionally but lead me to develop an interest in boxing. Not just as a sport, but to defend myself, cope with everything I had been through, and build myself up both mentally and physically. When I was 18, I looked into boxing clubs around Louisville, but I couldn’t afford to join them. I eventually stopped searching until I met Coach Red. He wanted more women on his team and, in return, only asked for my hard work, dedication, and consistency. He provided me with everything I needed. Coming from little, this opportunity meant the world to me. Boxing and the environment of the gym have transformed me in every way. It has helped me manage my emotions, it has given me confidence in all areas of my life and shown me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. This gym feels like a full-circle moment for me. I grew up near it and wish it had been here when I was younger. But now, I get to be part of something that can positively impact the community I came from and that’s all I could ask for.
Contact us
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions, want to learn more about our programs, or are interested in getting involved, feel free to reach out. Our team is here to help and ready to connect with you.