About The Foundation
"Knowledge is power, but applied knowledge is powerful." – Marta Washington Gore
The Marta Washington Gore Foundation is a mentorship and scholarship foundation that raises funds to award scholarships honoring the legacy of Marta Washington Gore and Phyllis Washington, who were prominent educators and dedicated their careers to investing in students and inspiring them to pursue higher education. Their 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 Phyills Washington
Phyllis Washington left behind a legacy of love, service, intellect, and unwavering determination. She lived her life boldly and on her own terms, a true Renaissance woman whose presence made an impact wherever she went.
Born on March 30, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia, Phyllis was the daughter of Virginia Hocker. She spent her formative years in Richmond before her family relocated to New York. A lifelong learner with a sharp mind and spirited curiosity, Phyllis graduated from Morris High School in the Bronx, New York. She loved learning and could debate almost anything with passion, insight, and conviction.In the 1960s, Phyllis moved to Philadelphia with her then-husband, George Washington, where she began building her family and her future. In 1965, they welcomed their daughter, Marta, who became the center
of Phyllis’s world. Determined to continue growing intellectually and professionally, Phyllis returned to school at Temple University, earning her master’s degree. Her professional journey reflected her versatility and drive, as she worked as a Temple University lab technician, bank teller, accountant, and teacher.
Phyllis was a woman of boundless energy and purpose. She was truly a “Jane of all trades,” approaching life with confidence, independence, and determination. Her interests were wide-ranging and reflected her vibrant personality—she loved reading, travel, poetry, cats, and trips to the casino, and she even tried her hand at writing comedy and drawing.
A committed servant to her community, Phyllis volunteered for many years with the Philadelphia Election voter registration efforts, served at election polls, and acted as a block captain. Her dedication to civic engagement and volunteerism was unmatched and brought her great joy, spending countless hours in leadership and service within organizations such as the Past State Grand Loyal Lady Ruler, PA State Assembly Order of the Golden Circle, member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and Past Grand Auditor Deborah Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star, Prince Hall Adopted, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Faith was a cornerstone of Phyllis’s life. She was a believer in Jesus Christ and was raised in the Catholic Church, grounding her life in faith, service, and gratitude. Phyllis lived her life fully, authentically, and unapologetically. We give thanks for her life, her love, her friendship, and the many good works she shared with the world
Meet The Family
Marta & Phyllis' 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 Foundation 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.