Working Out Wonders Foundation, Inc.

The Working Out Wonders (WOW) Foundation was born out of a vision carried in the heart of its founder, Rev. Dr. Ruby M. Brown-Thomas. She believed that learning should not be confined to the walls of a classroom but should extend into the community, where history, culture, and personal stories come alive. Her vision was to create opportunities for people of all ages to learn about the contributions, struggles, and achievements of those who came before them.

Long before the foundation was formally organized, Rev. Dr. Brown-Thomas began sharing this vision through volunteer service. She devoted her time to visiting schools, nursing homes, churches, and community organizations, where she would present stories about remarkable people. Many of these individuals were everyday heroes—teachers, parents, veterans, community leaders, and church members—whose lives reflected courage, faith, and perseverance. Through storytelling and historical reflection, she helped audiences recognize the importance of preserving community history and honoring those who helped shape it.

Motivated by a desire to bring greater attention to overlooked historical contributions, Rev. Dr. Brown-Thomas conducted extensive research that led to the development of a powerful presentation entitled “Black Women of Maryland: The Famous and the Forgotten.” This presentation highlighted both well-known and lesser-known African American women whose accomplishments had helped shape the history of Maryland and the nation. The program quickly gained attention and was presented in various communities, schools, and organizations across the region. Its impact grew so significantly that the presentation was eventually featured on national television during Women History Month and Black History Month, bringing wider recognition to the stories she sought to preserve.

As interest in her work continued to grow, Rev. Dr. Brown-Thomas realized the need to formalize her efforts into an organized structure that could expand educational outreach and community programming. In 2008, she established the Working Out Wonders (WOW) Foundation as a nonprofit organization dedicated to historical education, cultural preservation, and community engagement. The foundation would serve as a platform for programs, research, presentations, learning and partnerships that celebrate heritage and promote learning.

In its earliest days, the foundation was built through the support of family members and close friends who believed in her vision. These individuals became the first members of WOW, helping to develop programs, organize events, and support outreach efforts. Their collective commitment laid the groundwork for the organization’s growth and continued impact.

Over time, the Working Out Wonders Foundation expanded its reach and formed partnerships with various organizations, local governments, and communities. Through these partnerships and their support, WOW has continued promoting educational initiatives, historical research, and cultural programs that benefit the public.

Today, the Working Out Wonders Foundation stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of Rev. Dr. Ruby M. Brown-Thomas. What began as one woman’s passion for storytelling and community history has grown into an organization committed to preserving legacies, inspiring learning, and ensuring that the stories of the famous—and the forgotten—are never lost.