Get to Know Us
Who We Are
Ishmail Arvin Jr
Meet Our Founder
Born and raised in Baltimore, Ishmail understands firsthand the challenges many of the city’s youth face—navigating systems that often fail to provide them with the support, stability, and opportunities they need to succeed. With an entrepreneurial spirit and a deep passion for youth advocacy, Ishmail has dedicated their career to creating pathways for at-risk youth to break cycles of hardship and achieve independence, confidence, and success. As the Founder and CEO of The Finish Foundation, Ishmail leads a mission-driven organization that empowers underserved youth, particularly those in foster care or facing behavioral and mental health challenges. Through vocational training, mentorship, life skills development, and community partnerships, The Finish Foundation provides young people with the resources and guidance they need to transition into successful adulthood and beyond. In addition to The Finish Foundation, Ishmail is also the Founder and Director of Community Caregivers, a company established in 2021 that provides group homes and wraparound services for foster youth dealing with mental health disabilities and behavioral challenges. Through Community Caregivers, Ishmail has created a holistic support system, ensuring that vulnerable youth receive safe housing, individualized care, and access to crucial mentorship opportunities. Recognizing the power of mentorship, Ishmail has also developed a mentorship initiative within Community Caregivers, pairing foster youth with dedicated mentors who provide guidance, stability, and emotional support. This program stands out by offering competitive wages to mentors, reinforcing the idea that youth mentorship is not only valuable but also a critical investment in the future of Baltimore’s communities. With a strong foundation in business, leadership, and social impact, Ishmail is committed to reshaping the future for Baltimore’s youth. Through The Finish Foundation and Community Caregivers, they are bridging the gap between opportunity and access, ensuring that young people—regardless of their circumstances—have the tools and support to build fulfilling, self-sufficient lives. “We Finish Everything We Start.”
Meet our Chief
Legal Advisor
Carlisa Bydume
As the Chief Legal Advisor for Finish Foundation, I play a critical role in supporting our mission to empower young adults by ensuring our operations comply with legal and regulatory requirements. I provide strategic legal guidance, help navigate complex issues, and manage risk across all aspects of the organization. My expertise supports our efforts to deliver life-changing programs, advocate for youth rights, and create positive, lasting change in the lives of young adults.
Meet our Chief Operating Officer
Aaron Wallace
A Baltimore native, brings extensive experience in skilled trades, including carpentry, welding, fabrication, automotive mechanics, and technical work. His background in real estate, business, and investing exposed a critical gap in access to career pathways, financial literacy, and essential resources within his community—barriers that directly impact economic mobility and long-term success. As COO of The Finish Foundation, he ensures programs are equipped, effective, and efficient, providing youth with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities needed to navigate industries, build ownership, and secure sustainable futures. My focus is on building sustainable pathways for youth and young adults, making sure they not only gain access to critical skills but also understand how to apply them with purpose, responsibility, and a mindset rooted in long-term success.
Meet our
Administrative Director
Cydni Stewart
The Administrative Director at The Finish Foundation, draws on her rich experiences in Baltimore, the arts, and business to deeply commit to the organization’s mission. As an advocate for those without a voice, she is passionate about empowering youth to recognize their own strength and potential. Cydni believes that every young person should have the opportunity to ‘finish’ what they start, rather than being thwarted by life’s challenges. Inspired by their resilience and dreams, she dedicates herself to nurturing their growth, helping them become the leaders their communities need.