Meet Clauthia Fields | Educator & Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Clauthia Fields and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Clauthia, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business was driven by a combination of personal experiences, professional insights, and a deep desire to make a positive impact. Here’s a breakdown of my thought process:

Identifying a Need
Personal Experience: As a mother and educator, I saw firsthand the challenges children face in their academic, athletic, and personal development. I wanted to create a space where they could thrive holistically.
Community Insight: Observing the needs within my community, especially among African American families, I recognized a gap in services that integrate academic support, physical fitness, and spiritual growth.
Vision and Mission
Empowerment: My goal was to empower individuals to discover and embrace their unique purpose. I envisioned a center that nurtures mind, body, and soul, guided by faith and holistic development.
Positive Impact: I wanted to create positive ripples in the world, one drop at a time, by fostering a supportive and inclusive community.
Leveraging Experience
Educational Background: With 30 years of experience in education, I had the knowledge and skills to develop effective programs that cater to diverse needs.
Family Values: My personal journey of raising six children and maintaining a strong family unit inspired me to incorporate family wellness and resilience into the business model.
Strategic Planning
Market Analysis: I conducted thorough research to understand the industry trends, target market, and potential competitors. This helped me identify opportunities and refine my business strategy.
Program Development: I designed comprehensive programs that integrate academic enrichment, athletic training, spiritual guidance, and wellness activities, ensuring a holistic approach to development.
Commitment to Excellence
Quality Services: I was committed to providing high-quality services that meet the unique needs of each participant. This involved continuous evaluation and improvement of our programs.
Community Engagement: Building strong relationships with local organizations, schools, and faith-based groups was crucial for creating a supportive network and expanding our reach.
Faith and Resilience
Spiritual Foundation: My faith in God played a significant role in shaping the vision and mission of the business. It provided the strength and resilience needed to overcome challenges and stay focused on our goals.
Long-Term Vision: I viewed the business as a long-term investment in the community, aiming to create lasting positive change and support the growth of future generations.
Personal Reflection
Starting The Ripple Athletic and Academic Education Center Inc. was a journey rooted in my personal experiences and professional insights. It was driven by a desire to empower individuals, support families, and create a holistic environment for growth. The challenges were significant, but the vision of making a positive impact kept me motivated and resilient.

What should our readers know about your business?
Answer: The Ripple Athletic and Academic Education Center Inc. (RAAC) is a unique organization dedicated to holistic development—mind, body, and soul. What sets us apart is our comprehensive approach to nurturing individuals through academic enrichment, athletic training, spiritual guidance, and wellness programs. We believe in empowering individuals to discover and embrace their unique purpose, guided by faith and a commitment to personal growth.

One of the things I am most proud of is the positive impact we have had on our community. Seeing the transformation in our participants, from increased confidence to improved academic performance and physical fitness, is incredibly rewarding. I am also excited about the strong sense of community we have built, where everyone feels supported and valued.

Getting to where we are today has not been easy. There were numerous challenges along the way, from securing funding to balancing the demands of running a business and raising a family. However, our faith in God and our unwavering commitment to our mission kept us going. We overcame challenges by staying focused on our vision, seeking support from our community, and continuously adapting to meet the needs of our participants.

One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience and adaptability. The journey of building a business is filled with ups and downs, and it’s crucial to stay flexible and open to change. I’ve also learned the value of community and collaboration. Surrounding yourself with supportive and dedicated individuals can make all the difference.

What I want the world to know about The RAAC is that we are more than just an education center. We are a community dedicated to creating positive ripples in the world, one drop at a time. Our holistic approach ensures that every individual is nurtured and empowered to reach their full potential. Our story is one of faith, resilience, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Week-Long Itinerary for the Best Time in Dallas
Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Exploration

Morning: Start with breakfast at Ellen’s in the West End Historic District. Their shrimp and grits are a must-try.
Midday: Visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza to learn about the history of JFK’s assassination.
Afternoon: Explore the Dallas World Aquarium and enjoy the diverse marine life.
Evening: Dinner at Blue mesa grill for delicious West Coast-style Mexican food, including build-your-own burritos and fish tacos.
Day 2: Thrills and Adventure

Morning: Breakfast at Rise Soufflé for a unique French dining experience.
Midday: Spend the day at Six Flags Over Texas enjoying world-class roller coasters and family rides.
Evening: Dinner at Taco Joint,
Day 3: Nature and Outdoor Activities

Morning: Breakfast at The Woolworth with a view of the city.
Midday: Go for a nature walk at Cedar Ridge Preserve or White Rock Lake Trail to enjoy the scenic beauty and fresh air.
Afternoon: Head to Joe Pool Lake for jet skiing and water sports. Rent a jet ski and enjoy the thrill of riding on the water.
Evening: Dinner at Lucia in Oak Cliff for an intimate Italian dining experience.
Day 4: Shopping and Relaxation

Morning: Brunch at The Mansion Restaurant at Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek.
Midday: Spend the day shopping at NorthPark Center, one of the top shopping destinations in Dallas with over 200 retailers and restaurants.
Afternoon: Visit the JFK memorial
Evening: Five Guys
Day 5: Adventure and Fun

Morning: Breakfast at Ellie’s Restaurant & Lounge.
Midday: Experience zip lining at Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park in Plano. Enjoy tree-to-tree crossings, long ziplines, and heart-stopping Tarzan swings.
Afternoon: Visit TopGolf Dallas for some fun and competitive golfing.
Evening: Dinner at The French Room for a luxurious dining experience.
Day 6: Local Favorites and Nightlife

Morning: Breakfast at Uno Mas Tex Mex for delicious Tex-Mex cuisine.
Midday: Explore the Bishop Arts District with its eclectic shops and galleries.
Afternoon: Visit the Dallas Zoo and enjoy the wildlife exhibits.
Evening: Dinner at YO Ranch Steakhouse followed by drinks at The Mansion Bar for handcrafted cocktails.
Day 7: Black History and Farewell

Morning: Brunch at The Capital Grille.
Midday: Visit the African American Museum in Fair Park to explore exhibits on African American history and culture.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk along the Katy Trail.
Evening: Farewell dinner at Fearing’s Restaurant for a memorable dining experience.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! I owe a great deal of my success to several key people and groups who have supported and inspired me along the way. First and foremost, I want to dedicate my shoutout to my husband and children. Their unwavering support, love, and encouragement have been the foundation of my journey. My husband has been my rock, and together we have navigated the challenges of raising a family and building a business.

I also want to recognize my church community. Their faith and fellowship have provided spiritual guidance and a sense of belonging that has been invaluable. The support from our church family has been instrumental in shaping the values and mission of The Ripple Athletic and Academic Education Center Inc.

Additionally, I want to give a shoutout to the dedicated board members and staff of The RAAC. Their hard work, dedication, and passion for our mission have been crucial in bringing our vision to life. They have been with us every step of the way, helping to create a supportive and nurturing environment for our participants.

Lastly, I want to acknowledge the mentors and educators who have guided me throughout my career. Their wisdom and advice have been invaluable in helping me grow both personally and professionally.

Website: https://www.therippleinc.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therippleinc1/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clauthia-fieldsraac/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRippleInc1

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRippleInc1

Image Credits
Drew Merlino and Richard Hill