About Us
Who are we?
Torie knows first hand the struggles of raising a child without father involvement. A young single mother who was dealt many challenges along the way, watched her child cry herself to sleep at night as she wandered why she did not have her father. It was one of the deepest pain Torie has experienced as a mother. Although she faced this struggle, Torie realized she was not alone in her whoas and identifies each story is different. What if we removed the barriers for men who actually want to be fathers? What if we help bridge the gap so another child will no longer spend years hoping and wishing they had their father present in their life? What if parents could work together sucessfully for the sake of their child? What if we celebrate fatherhood as we do motherhood? We created our mission to incorporate every question asked and more. Torie obtained her bachelors degree in Business Managment in 2015 and has worked with KIASWI and other nonprofits at diffrent capacities over the years.
Established in 2014, KIASWI is a 501c3 nonprofit organization created with the vision of re-instilling family dynamics by engaging more men to become active fathers. KIASWI's mission is to inspire, empower and rebuild the legacy of fatherhood. Our team of dedicated individuals are committed to the celebration and success of each participant within our program.
Torie Wilson
Founder/Executive Director
Alexa Long
Co-Chairman/Secretary
Alexa came from a single parent background. Raised by her mother, the two developed a very special relationship. Alexa experienced on different levels the effects of living without a parent. She became a foster sister in her teens and tried to facilitate help within the home for foster children . As she grew into an adult, she assumed the role as a caretaker for children living without parents. Alexa is very passionate about the cause and brings with her experience in the legal field. Alexa is also a recent graduate, graduating with a bachlors in Business Management.
KIASWI
KIASWI is a community based nonprofit dedicated to tackling the issue of father absence and its impacts in children. By offering father-centered programs and collaborating with local partners, we aim to empower fathers to take pride in their roles and responsibilities. Our mission is to support fathers, ultimately promoting stability and a healthy well-being for their children. We believe when fathers are present, children thrive.
Meet our Board
Francis "Jay" Manigault
Chairman
Jay’s journey reflects the strength and commitment of an engaged father. He entered fatherhood unexpectedly but embraced the responsibility, raising his son as a single father with dedication and pride.
As his family grew, Jay continued to lead with love. He joined his wife in raising her adopted daughter, welcomed another biological child, and later fostered and adopted an additional daughter. Through each stage, Jay has remained a consistent and supportive presence,
