HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
I have been a proud resident of Algiers for over 35 years.
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
I saw very important issues that needed to be addressed immediately as it relates to the lack of youth opportunities, community activities, after school educational programs and much more.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
We are a tight knit community that works together and have each other's back.
WHAT SUCCESSES HAVE YOU HAD IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
I have successfully started one of the only non profit organizations (Heroes of New Orleans) that works directly with the community, engaging in community police relationships, professional development for youth as well as paid; on the job experience training for youth workers.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
In light of the protesting happening around the country and police brutality, we are taking a first step to bridging the gap. Currently we're working on forming a Heroes of New Orleans Youth and Families police officer First Encounter Engagement Program. This program will work to increase relationship building opportunities with police officers and community members while decreasing the rate of crime, juvenile detention population and truancy. Each participant who completes the First Encounter Engagement Program will leave with a certified membership card. The membership card provides the youth with a mentor contact for the NOPD and Heroes of New Orleans which can aid as a resource during a time of need.
ANY WORDS OF ADVICE FOR OTHER NEIGHBORHOOD LEADERS AND CHANGE MAKERS?
Now is the time to come together and work as one community by sharing resources, opportunities, facilities & anything we have that our community can benefit from.