About
EXCEL IS COMMITTED TO:
Offering Quality Programs
Honoring the Dignity of All People
Respecting & Engaging Diversity
Volunteer Service
Lifelong Education
Responsible Stewardship
We believe in the power of community to create lasting change. By working together, we can build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
The Beginnings
Excel was founded in Okolona, MS in the summer of 1988. Initially it was jointly sponsored by the National Council of Negro Women and the Catholic Church. At that time Excel had no space in which to operate or financial resources. It did have, however, several committed people willing to spend days of their summer volunteering to keep children in the learning process. So, with borrowed property and help from friends, the program started and became very successful.
The success was encouraging to the steering committee who then proceeded to design an after-school learning program. Again, no space or necessary resources. Again, success.
After two years, in order to broaden the base of community involvement and to implement its goal of inclusion, the sponsorship was broadened beyond the founding groups to become a separate non-profit entity. To this day Excel maintains its commitment to racial, religious, and economic inclusiveness at every level: leadership, planning, and participation.
Growth & Development
Excel Learning Center & Volunteer Center since 1990
In 1989 Excel purchased and renovated an abandoned railroad motel which had 26 bedrooms, a common area, and kitchen. In the north end of the building, 9 bedrooms were kept and subsequently used for volunteers from out of town. The larger south end of the building was extensively renovated to prepare larger rooms for 2 classrooms and office space for the After School Learning Program.
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Excel Commons Family & Community Center
In 1999 Excel completed the renovation of a downtown department store to be the central headquarters for Excel. The renovation was completed primarily by local and out of town volunteers. Excel Commons houses 5 classrooms, 5 offices, a large kitchen, a work-out room, and a common area for social events. Other than the programs listed under Other Programs, the Commons also sponsors and hosts an annual Thanksgiving Dinner, an annual gala for Special Needs adults, and Excel fundraisers. In addition, the large gathering space is available to rent for wedding receptions, family reunions, funeral dinners, and other appropriate community events.
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Other Developments
One of a Kind Resale Store since 1994
Excel Adult Learning Center since 2002
Excel Family Park since 2004
Active Aging Center since 2011
Mugs on Main Coffee Shop since 2012
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Separately incorporated as Grace Housing, Inc. Excel also operates:
Main Street Senior Apartments since 2011
Elizabeth House Homeless Center since 2021
