ABOUT US

 

Founded in 1975 as the Gethsemane Enrichment Program, Greater Enrichment Program (GEP) began in the basement of Gethsemane AME Zion Church under the visionary leadership of George Battle Jr.. From his office overlooking Beatties Ford Road, Bishop Battle saw a community in need.
 

“The view outside my office at Gethsemane in 1975 showed a community that was in trouble,” Bishop Battle shared. “Children were in the streets with no supervision or direction. I felt called and knew I had to do something to help give them a future.”
 

Answering that call, he launched a program rooted in faith, education, and opportunity — a program that would grow far beyond its original walls.
 

Today, the organization is known as Greater Enrichment Program (GEP) and operates in multiple Charlotte-Mecklenburg public schools, serving hundreds of students and families across the community. While much has evolved over the years, our mission remains the same: to change the trajectory of young lives through high-quality afterschool enrichment.
 

Bishop Battle credited GEP’s longevity and impact to strong executive leadership and unwavering community support. In 1975, he invited church member Adelaide Hunt to serve as the program’s first Executive Director. She laid a firm foundation for excellence and care. Cathy McIlwain, GEP’s second Executive Director, led the organization faithfully for more than 30 years until her passing in 2010, expanding its reach and strengthening its structure.
 

Today, under the leadership of Executive Director Bronica Glover — affectionately known as the “Queen of Afterschool” for her commitment to empowering youth — GEP continues to innovate and inspire. The GEP Experience is transformative. Through academic support, enrichment opportunities, leadership development, and exposure to new possibilities, our students and families gain access to experiences that are both impactful and unforgettable. Learning at GEP is engaging, creative, and designed to unlock potential.
 

Bishop Battle remained a devoted supporter of GEP until his passing in March 2025. His legacy lives on in every classroom, every partnership, and every child whose life is forever changed through the power of enrichment.
 

Greater Enrichment Program stands today as a testament to one man’s vision, a community’s commitment, and a shared belief that every child deserves a future filled with opportunity.