About The Foundation
"Knowledge is power, but applied knowledge is powerful." – Marta Washington Gore
The Marta Washington Gore Foundation is a mentorship and schlorship foundation that raises funds to provide scholarships that honor the legacy of Marta Washington Gore, a prominent educator in McKinney ISD who dedicated her career to investing in her students and inspiring them to pursue higher education. Her passion for teaching and commitment to empowering young minds laid the foundation for countless students to achieve their academic and career goals.
Meet Marta "Ladybug"
Marta Davette Washington Gore lived a life worth celebrating and emulating. She was born on January 3, 1965 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to George and Phyllis Washington. Unafraid to break molds, she was one of the first girls to become a Cub Scout. Marta excelled at the Philadelphia School of Performing Arts in theater and dance, where she forged lifelong friendships. She earned a B.A. in marketing at North Carolina Central University and pledged a lifetime of sisterhood, scholarship, and service to the illustrious Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc. through the Alpha Lambda Chapter. She was a dedicated alumna and became a huge proponent of HBCUs, noting the critical role that they play in cultivating the minds of young Black scholars.
After graduating, Marta set her creative sights to Hollywood, moved to Los Angeles, and landed roles on iconic shows like Martin and Sinbad. While in L.A., Marta met her cherished husband Charles Gore, Jr. and daughter Jennifer. Marta and Charles wed on July 29, 1995 and relocated to Durham, North Carolina, where they welcomed their daughter Janelle into the world. Soon after moving to McKinney, Texas, their son Ezra completed their family.
During her 25 years in McKinney, Marta worked tirelessly to help everyone realize their unique and significant contributions to the world. She was an educator in the McKinney Independent School District, mentored students, served on the McKinney Community Board, founded Eastside Harvest, became a member of the NAACP, was a lead in the theater ministry at North Dallas Community Bible Fellowship, and founded an after-school theater camp named Destiny's Children. She pursued justice fervently, even throughout her battle with cancer. Through her social action work with Delta Sigma Theta, Marta helped the Crown Act become state law in 2023—prohibiting race-based hair discrimination in Texas workplaces, schools, and housing policies.
Meet The Family
Marta's spirit fuels the mission of The Foundation, as it is led by her family to honor and continue her legacy. Husband, Charles Gore; Son, Ezra Washington Gore; Daughter, Jennifer Gore; Daughter, Janelle Gore.
The Marta Washington Gore Scholars Program
The Marta Washington Gore Scholars Program is a virtual, one-year initiative designed to empower high school seniors from historically underrepresented backgrounds who are navigating behavioral health or learning challenges. This program provides scholars with both financial support and tailored mentorship to ensure a successful transition into college. Grounded in the values of resilience, equity, and community, the program equips students with practical tools, guidance, and a nurturing support system to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.