Meet Our Founder, Staff & Board
Callie Webb | FOUNDER
As the founder and board member of HUDDLE, Callie’s passion for early childhood education began in her hometown of Milwaukee, WI, where she volunteered at her best friend’s childcare center. In her early 20s, she moved to Miami, FL, working with Title 1 programs and after-school tutoring, where her commitment to helping youth became a reality. She later moved to Charlotte, NC, building a career in early childhood education and creating a safe, successful space for preschoolers to thrive. As an entrepreneur, she ran her own in-home daycare until COVID-19. However, her dedication to youth never wavered. While serving on her daughter’s elementary school board, she recognized the urgent need for community commitment to keeping youth on track. This realization led her to establish HUDDLE, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering underrepresented and at-risk youth, breaking barriers, and shaping a brighter future.
Kelly Webb | BOARD PRESIDENT
Kelly brings over 30 years of experience in Sales, Marketing, and Advertising, along with an HBCU education from Johnson C. Smith University. As an entrepreneur and founder of WTL, a transportation company that transports senior citizens to their medical appointments, he has a strong commitment to community service. A father of three daughters, one a college graduate from an HBCU as well. Kelly is passionate about the importance of early education. He shares this passion with HUDDLE, helping children excel and communicate effectively.
Mitzi K. Burnett | BOARD MEMBER
Mitzi K. Burnett is a dedicated professional with over 34 years of experience as an Independent Certified General Appraiser. She graduated from San Diego State University in 1983 and has since built a successful career in real property valuation.
Beyond her work, Mitzi is passionate about music and is an active member of the choir at Parkwood Baptist Church in Gastonia. However, her greatest joy comes from her family, whom she considers her most valuable asset.
Mitzi’s personal journey with literacy has shaped her deep commitment to helping others. As a child, she struggled with reading, which affected her performance in school—especially in subjects like math, where reading comprehension was essential. With the help of her mother and sister, she overcame these challenges and became a straight-A student by sixth grade. Having experienced firsthand the frustration and setbacks of literacy struggles, Mitzi is dedicated to ensuring others have the support they need to succeed. She is honored to serve on the board of HUDDLE, where she hopes to help students build strong literacy skills and achieve their goals.
Deacon Vernard Allen | BOARD MEMBER
Deacon Vernard Allen is a former global and commercial banker turned small business entrepreneur with a deep passion for mentorship and community impact. Born and raised in the Charlotte, NC area, he has strong ties to the region and a lifelong dedication to empowering young people.
As Co-Director of the Dynamic Youth Ministry at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Charlotte, Deacon Allen has been instrumental in guiding and supporting youth through faith-based leadership and mentorship. His commitment to service extends beyond the church, as he actively works to uplift and inspire the next generation.
A devoted husband, father, brother, and friend to nearly everyone he meets, Deacon Allen brings both professional expertise and a heart for mentorship to the HUDDLE board. His leadership and dedication make him a valuable asset in advancing HUDDLE’s mission.
Jamesha Carter | BOARD SECRETARY
Jamesha is a dedicated professional with a strong background in Human Resources and Diversity & Inclusion. She has served as VP of Membership for the National Association of African Americans in Human Resources (NAAAHR) and is committed to fostering inclusive workplaces and professional growth.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Human Resources with a minor in Health Care Management and is currently pursuing her MBA, set to be completed in 2025. As a certified ADHD life coach in training, Jamesha is passionate about empowering the youth, women, Christians, and BIPOC professionals through purpose-driven coaching and support.
Her expertise in leadership, mentorship, and advocacy aligns with HUDDLE’s mission, making her a valuable asset to the board and the communities it serves.