Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Margaret A. Walker has been a major force for positive change in the Decatur, Illinois community since 1980. She is the CEO of Youth With A Positive Direction (YWAPD), a non-profit organization she founded in 1989. YWAPD runs an after-school program aimed at guiding and training youth and young adults to lead productive lives by helping them resist negative influences and focus on the positive aspects of life. This is achieved through mentoring, homework assistance, cultural arts, life and job skills training, peer leadership, and community service initiatives.

In addition to her work with YWAPD, Margaret is a versatile entrepreneur. She is the owner of Westside New Creation Beauty Salon and co-owner of Walker Funeral Service & Chapel. Furthermore, she plays a significant role in the Main Street Church of the Living God, where she serves as the First Lady. Within the church, Margaret is actively involved in the Main Street Mass Choir, serves as the Director of Social Services, and leads various other ministries.

Margaret’s contributions extend beyond her church and businesses. Through the Social Service ministry, she has spearheaded various community awareness programs addressing issues such as HIV/AIDS awareness, breast and prostate health awareness, job readiness resources, food services, and violence prevention. These programs are designed to meet the needs of underserved families in Macon County.

Margaret’s commitment and dedication have been widely recognized and honored over the years. She received the BET Honor Award in January 2008 for her tireless efforts in supporting underserved youth in the Decatur community. Her accolades also include the 2007 African American Women of Decatur Award, the 2006 Afterschool is Key to Kids’ Success, Voices of Illinois Children & National City Children’s Champion Award, the 2006 Governor Pat Quinn Cesar E. Charz Serve & Learn Award, the University of Illinois Extension Award, the 2004 Women of Excellence Award, and the 1993 Humanitarian Angel Award, among many others.

Margaret is not only a mother of five children and a grandmother but also a godmother to several children of all ages. Her life’s work continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those she serves.