Richard Kelly

CEO & Founder

Richard Kelly has committed his life to professionally assisting teenagers and college students who may be struggling socially and academically.  In the past he has served with HopeReach, an organization in Greenville, SC. Project HOPE’s pilot program, Hope Academy included children with autism in classrooms with typical peers, using “shadow” aids as necessary.   With this background he came to Focus Initiative in 2007, serving as Social Coach and Director of the Academy.  He founded Launch Academy in 2011 as a response to an overwhelming need for kids to be able engage in tutorial style, hands on education that emphasizes real life skills. He completed his MBA at North Greenville University. He has a certificate in Leadership for Non-profit Excellence and a certificate in Wrights-law Special Education and Advocacy sponsored by Texas Parent to Parent.  He is also a Certified Autism Specialist (Certification# CAS194333.)  Richard resides with his wife and family in Richmond, Texas.