The Final Lap

From Movement to Blueprint

The 6th Annual "Momma I Don't Want to Go to College" Skills and Trade

Career Expo

Saturday, April 18, 2026

Sugaw Creek Recreation Center — Charlotte, NC

Doors open 10:00 AM | Proclamation Ceremony 11:30 AM

This started as a mother's refusal.

In April 2019 a desperate mother went looking for another way to save her daughter — a young person the system had pushed out and given up on.

She found gold. And refused to keep it to herself.

On February 29, 2020 — a leap day that only comes once every four years — the first Momma I Don't Want to Go to College Career Expo opened its doors in Charlotte, NC. Six years later it has grown into a movement preparing to become a national blueprint.

Let us be clear.

This is NOT an anti-college movement.

It is a movement that refuses to accept that a four year degree is the only measure of success. It celebrates Associate degrees, certifications, apprenticeships, on the job training, and skilled trades with the same pride and investment as any university acceptance letter.

It is for the Valedictorian who wants to be an electrician. It is for the student who needs permission to pivot. It is for the parent who needs help listening instead of directing.

College is ONE option. Not THE option.

Make It Official — Sign the Petition

Help us declare April 18, 2026 as Charlotte's official Momma I Don't Want to Go to College Day — and take this movement beyond Charlotte.

Every signature strengthens the movement. Share it with everyone you know.

Why the Final Lap Matters

For six years this movement has expanded access to skills, trades, and career pathways beyond the traditional college route. The Final Lap represents a moment of intention — bringing the annual expo to a close while preparing to hand off the blueprint so this work can continue, grow, and be replicated beyond Charlotte.

This work was never meant to be temporary. In the words of the late, great Nipsey Hussle — it was always "too big to fail."

Six Year Commemorative Digital Magazine

We are producing the official Momma I Don't Want to Go to College six year commemorative digital magazine — documenting the full journey from February 29, 2020 to April 18, 2026.

Releasing June 1, 2026.

Your ticket to the 6th Annual Expo includes access to the digital magazine upon release.

Official Merchandise

Rep the movement. Shop our official Momma I Don't

Want to Go to College merchandise.

Get your Merchandise

Sign the Petiton

Connect with Us

Stay informed as we complete the marathon and hand off the blueprint.

Support the Mission

For six years, the "Momma I Don't Want to Go to College" Expo has been more than an event—it’s a bridge out of poverty. As we enter our Final Lap on April 18th, your support ensures that local families facing layoffs find a path to thrivable, recession-proof careers.
Your contribution directly funds the tools, certifications, and transportation needed to turn a "job seeker" into a "skilled professional." Join us in making our final year our most impactful one yet.

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