Why We Exist

We Can, We Shall was created in response to a gap that too many systems overlook.

Across Canton and Stark County, youth and young adults often receive support that comes with conditions—judgment, shame, or the quiet expectation of gratitude for basic dignity. The intention may be to help, but the impact can leave young people feeling minimized, invisible, or defined by what they lack.

We Can, We Shall exists to do things differently.

This foundation was built on the belief that support should restore confidence, not diminish it. That youth deserve resources, mentorship, and community care that honors their humanity, choice, and potential—without labels or stigma.

Not charity that reminds people where they are.
But community that supports where they’re going.

Founder & Leadership Team

Savanah Muntean
Founder & President

We Can, We Shall was born from Savanah’s lived experience, deep observation, and a refusal to accept systems that support youth while stripping them of dignity.

For over six years, Savanah has worked directly with youth and young adults—mentoring, advocating, and showing up consistently for those navigating instability, hardship, and transition. Through this work, she saw a pattern: young people weren’t lacking resilience or capability—they were lacking environments that respected them.

What began as one person doing the work evolved into a foundation committed to dignity-first support. Savannah leads with the belief that when young people are met without judgment, given choice, and supported by community, they rise.

Every decision at We Can, We Shall is guided by one core question:
Does this preserve dignity and empower the person in front of us?

Gary Bagley
Chairman & Vice President

Gary Bagley is the Chairman and Vice President of We Can We Shall, where he helps guide the organization’s vision, governance, and long-term strategy. With a background spanning leadership development, project management, and organizational inclusion, Gary brings a systems-driven and people-centered approach to community impact work.

He has over a decade of experience in sales, management, and corporate operations, including leadership roles across multiple industries. In addition to his nonprofit work, Gary is a corporate specialist for a major investment firm, where he supports enterprise-level initiatives and cross-functional teams. His professional experience has consistently emphasized equity, accountability, and performance at scale.

Gary holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and an MBA, and is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Strategic Leadership. He is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Across all of his work, Gary is committed to building structures that support sustainable growth, inclusive leadership, and meaningful community outcomes.

Danny Shurik
Business Operations Manager

Danny Shurik serves as Business Operations Manager at We Can We Shall, bringing a strong track record of operational leadership and problem-solving to the team. Since joining the organization, he has played a key role in building internal systems, streamlining processes, and ensuring programs run efficiently, helping position the organization for sustainable growth and long-term impact.

Danny is known for his reliability, ownership mindset, and ability to tackle complex operational priorities with clarity and focus. He thrives in environments that require both strategic thinking and hands-on execution, ensuring that day-to-day operations align with the organization’s mission and values.

Through his work, Danny strengthens the structures and systems that allow We Can We Shall to deliver consistent, high-quality support to youth and young adults in the community.

Our Values in Action

Our values are not statements—we apply them daily.

  • We serve without shaming, labeling, or requiring gratitude. Support should never come at the cost of self-worth.

  • We prioritize real impact over appearances. The work matters more than how it looks.

  • Every dollar, program, and partnership is intentional and transparent.

  • Local people supporting local youth creates lasting change.

  • We show up—not just when it’s visible, but when it’s needed.

  • We listen to and honor the voices of those we serve.

Our Impact So Far

Savannah began this work by showing up—listening, mentoring, and advocating for youth long before the foundation formally existed.

- 6 years -
mentorship and emotional support

- 3 years -
funded support

As We Can, We Shall grew, so did its ability to provide financial resources, programs, and initiatives designed to meet real needs while preserving dignity.

Today, the foundation continues to expand its reach while staying deeply rooted in the local community—focused on practical support, confidence-building programs, and safe spaces where youth feel seen and valued.

Looking Forward

We Can, We Shall is committed to growing thoughtfully—building partnerships with local businesses, community leaders, and institutions that share our values.

Our long-term vision is not just to meet needs, but to change the culture of care—moving away from stigma and toward empowerment, choice, and trust.

This is how we support youth.
This is how we build community.
This is how we move from surviving to thriving.