Our Story
Expand. Grow. Build.
Restoring Hope. Uncovering Purpose.
Ignite Academy aims to restore hope and help individuals uncover their purpose through meaningful programming focused on expanding vision, growing in purpose, and building hopeful confidence.
How Ignite Academy Began
What began in 2017 as the Defiance Dream Center — focused on community outreach and workforce development for youth and young adults — quickly revealed a deeper need. Students didn't just need activities or job training. They needed direction, purpose, and someone to believe in them.
As we listened to students, families, and community partners, we evolved our model to address the whole person — not just academics, but character, confidence, and career readiness. Ignite Academy was born out of this commitment to igniting purpose and building futures for every young person we serve.
Built on Wildfire Leadership's Proven Curriculum
At the heart of everything we do is the curriculum developed by Wildfire Leadership — the Mission Portrait™ and the 7 Igniters™. These two frameworks help every student discover who they are, where they're going, and how to get there.
Our Mission, Vision & Values
Mission
Uncover Purpose
We help every young person uncover their unique purpose — the reason they were created and the difference only they can make in the world.
Vision
Hope Restored
We see hope restored as young people discover and step into their designed purpose — unlocking a future they were made for.
Core Values
Empower the Next Generation
We are committed to empowering the next generation by building character, developing skills, and creating a community of belonging.
Integrity
Doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
Hope
Believing the future holds more than the past.
Confidence
Knowing who you are and whose you are.
Growing Beyond Defiance County
What began in Defiance is now expanding to serve more communities. Our proven model is designed to be replicated, and we are actively bringing Ignite Academy to new cities.
Charleston, South Carolina
Led by Maysa Murdock — a former Ignite Academy student and Southeastern University graduate — our Charleston location will bring character development, purpose discovery, and mentoring to a new community.
See All Locations →Get Involved
Join us in igniting the futures of young people in our community. There are many ways to make a difference.