At the heart of The Lionel D. Pickens Foundation is a deep commitment to mentorship—guiding the next generation of youth and aspiring entrepreneurs toward a brighter future. Our mentorship programs connect underprivileged young people with dedicated professionals, creatives, and business leaders who offer guidance, inspiration, and real-world knowledge. We focus on nurturing personal growth, building confidence, and fostering the skills needed to thrive in school, business, and life. For budding entrepreneurs, our mentorship extends to business planning, networking, and financial literacy—empowering individuals to turn passion into purpose and ideas into sustainable success. Every relationship we build is rooted in community, compassion, and the belief that with the right support, anyone can rise above their circumstances and create lasting impact.

The Lionel D. Pickens Foundation is proud to invest in the future through our scholarship programs, designed to break down financial barriers and open doors to higher education for underprivileged youth. We believe that every young person deserves the chance to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or circumstances. Our scholarships support students with passion, potential, and a commitment to making a difference—whether in their communities, their careers, or the world at large. By easing the burden of tuition and educational expenses, we aim to create a clear path forward for those who might otherwise be overlooked, giving them the opportunity to grow, achieve, and carry forward a legacy of excellence and empowerment.

Through our small business grant program, The Lionel D. Pickens Foundation is committed to sparking economic growth and entrepreneurial resilience in Far Rockaway and the greater New York area. We provide financial support and resources to emerging and underserved entrepreneurs who are ready to build businesses that uplift their communities. These grants are designed not just to fund ideas, but to fuel dreams—supporting individuals who show vision, determination, and a desire to create lasting impact. By investing in local talent and small business development, we’re helping to create jobs, revitalize neighborhoods, and continue Lionel’s legacy of ambition, creativity, and giving back.

Every winter, The Lionel D. Pickens Foundation hosts our Annual Coat Drive to ensure that no child, adult, or family in our community is left to face the cold without warmth. In honor of Lionel’s giving spirit and deep love for his neighborhood, we collect and distribute hundreds of new and gently used coats to those in need throughout Far Rockaway and the greater New York area. More than just providing clothing, this initiative is about restoring dignity, offering comfort, and showing our neighbors that they are seen, valued, and supported. With every coat we give, we continue Lionel’s legacy of compassion, one family at a time.

Our Annual Turkey Giveaway is one of The Lionel D. Pickens Foundation’s most cherished traditions—a celebration of community, compassion, and togetherness. Held every November, this initiative provides families in need with turkeys and holiday essentials so they can enjoy a warm, nourishing meal with loved ones. For many, the holidays can be a difficult time, but through this program, we aim to ease the burden and bring joy to tables across Far Rockaway and the greater New York area. Inspired by Lionel’s generous heart and deep-rooted love for his community, the turkey giveaway is our way of spreading hope, honoring his memory, and reminding families that they are never alone.

The Lionel D. Pickens Foundation’s Annual Toy Drive is a celebration of joy, generosity, and the magic of childhood. Each holiday season, we collect and distribute toys to children in Far Rockaway and across the greater New York area, ensuring that even in times of hardship, every child experiences the excitement and wonder they deserve. For many families, the holidays can bring financial stress, but through this initiative, we bring smiles, laughter, and a sense of hope to those who need it most. Inspired by Lionel’s love for children and his unwavering belief in lifting others up, the toy drive is more than a gift—it’s a reminder that kindness lives on, and that even the smallest act can make a lasting difference in a young life.