Empowering Our Community

About Us – The Henley Foundation

The Henley Foundation, founded by Catina and Bobby Henley, is deeply rooted in a shared commitment to uplifting underprivileged communities and helping families thrive. Catina and Bobby both grew up understanding the value of hard work and community support. Bobby’s parents were both dedicated teachers, and Catina was raised in a blended family of nine children. Despite both of her parents working, they often received help from their community, especially around the holidays. That sense of giving and community care is something the Henleys have carried with them throughout their lives, and it’s at the heart of their Foundation’s mission today.

Bobby, a graduate of Mobile County High School (Class of ’91), pursued a professional baseball career with the Washington Nationals until an injury ended his playing days in 2000. He transitioned into coaching and by 2014 had worked his way up to become the 3rd base coach for the Major League club. He was with the Nationals when they won the 2019 World Series. 

Catina (Lefort) Henley graduated from Mobile County High School in ’92 and attended Ole Miss on Track and ROTC scholarships. She earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting and served as an Army officer, earning her Airborne wings. In 1998, after her marriage to Bobby, she left the military to focus on raising their two children, Anna and Joe.

The Henley Foundation began as “The Guardian of Little Angels” after the loss of their son, William Eugene Henley, to Trisomy 18. Initially, the foundation focused on providing support to grieving parents. However, after moving back to the Mobile County Area from West Palm Beach, FL, the Henleys felt called to expand their mission to help local children and families, particularly in their old high school community. Their former school had merged with another and is now called Alma Bryant High School.

Today, the Henley Foundation awards the Heart and Hustle Award to two graduating seniors from Alma Bryant High School, honoring students who show outstanding perseverance and dedication. However, the Foundation’s vision goes much further. Catina and Bobby are passionate about providing financial literacy and entrepreneurial education to local youth, empowering them with the tools to break the cycle of poverty and achieve personal and financial success.

Looking To The Future

In addition to their work with youth, the Henley Foundation is working to establish a local facility that will serve as a resource hub for both youth and the homeless population in the Grand Bay area. This facility will provide not only educational programs but also essential resources for homeless individuals, including workforce re-entry training, housing support, and guidance on accessing disability benefits. The Henleys are determined to extend the same sense of community support that Catina experienced growing up to those who need it most today.

With the support of our community, corporate partners, and future grants, we aim to expand the Heart and Hustle Award to other local schools and grow our programs to make an even greater impact. Together, we can break the cycle of poverty, empower individuals, and create a stronger, more connected community.