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Hello
My name is Rashida Dillard, and serving others has been part of my life since I was a teenager—although at the time, I didn’t know it was called community development. I simply knew that I wanted to do something meaningful for those younger than me that would encourage them, uplift them, and remind them of their potential.
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What started as small efforts to motivate youth gradually grew into opportunities to serve people of many ages within the community. Creating spaces where individuals could feel supported, inspired, and connected became something that brought me great fulfillment.
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Being able to encourage others and help them see what is possible has always been something that brings me joy. It is a passion that continues to guide the work and mission of Pathways Beyond Borders today.
Our Founder's Story
Pathways Beyond Borders was founded from a lifelong commitment to community, leadership, and opportunity.
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Founder Rashida Dillard grew up in the heart of West Philadelphia in a low-income family, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges many young people face when access to resources and opportunities is limited. Determined to make a difference, she began serving her community at just 19 years old as the Block Captain for 58th & Alter Street.
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During that time, Rashida organized neighborhood events, block parties, and youth activities to create safe, encouraging spaces for young people. One of her proudest efforts was helping develop the Silver Lightning Drill Team, a youth step team designed to keep students motivated, disciplined, and engaged in positive activities.
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The drill team became more than just performances—it became a way to build confidence and remind young people of their potential. Rashida often led the youth in chants meant to inspire pride, teamwork, and belief in themselves:
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“Motivated, Motivated, Ready to be Educated!”
“TEAM WORK! TEAM WORK! TEAM WORK NOW!”
(One clap as a team, one sound.)
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And one of her favorite reminders to the youth:
“CAN’T is not a word… because I CAN, WILL, AND DO whatever I put my mind to!”
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These chants were simple but powerful affirmations that encouraged young people to believe in their abilities and support one another.
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Years later, after relocating to rural South Carolina, Rashida noticed something that deeply resonated with her. Many of the same challenges she witnessed growing up in urban Philadelphia were also present in rural communities limited exposure to opportunities, resources, and mentorship that could help young people see a broader future for themselves.
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This realization inspired the creation of Pathways Beyond Borders.
The organization was built on the belief that opportunity should not be defined by geography. Whether in urban neighborhoods or rural communities, young people deserve access to experiences, mentorship, and support that expand their horizons.
Rashida’s passion for community development continues to guide the organization’s mission. She believes real change begins when someone cares enough to step forward and take action.
As she often says:
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“Making a difference for one person means creating change for a lifetime.”
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Through youth leadership programs, community engagement initiatives, and partnerships that strengthen rural communities, Pathways Beyond Borders works to create pathways of opportunity for the next generation.
