Growing up in Brownsville, Brooklyn, during the 1970s was an experience shaped by the tumultuous social and economic landscape of the era. The neighborhood was grappling with high levels of crime, poverty, and corruption, creating a challenging environment for its residents, especially the youth.
The prevalence of violence, including the tragic loss of young lives, deeply affected me and ignited a passion to make a difference in my community. I was driven by a desire to create a safer, more nurturing environment for the children growing up in Brooklyn.
In 1982, I joined forces with a dedicated group of Black men from the community who shared my vision. Together, we founded a youth center aimed at providing support and guidance to the young people in our neighborhood. This center became a beacon of hope, offering a safe space for children of all races to learn, grow, and thrive.
One of our early initiatives was organizing trips outside the city for the youth, providing them with opportunities to explore new horizons and broaden their perspectives. These trips were funded entirely by donations and were offered at no cost to the participants, ensuring that financial barriers did not prevent anyone from benefiting.
In 1988, we launched an annual event called Children’s Day, which quickly became a beloved tradition in the community. This event was a day of remembrance and celebration, honoring the lives of children lost to violence while also providing a day of fun and enjoyment for the youth. Activities included outdoor games, food, drinks, and the distribution of essential resources such as tablets, computers, scholarships, achievement plaques, and school supplies.
As the years went by, our efforts expanded beyond the youth center and Children’s Day. In the early 1990s, I collaborated with the Ebony Society of the Parks Department to organize an annual Black History Month variety talent show in Brooklyn. This event not only showcased the talent and creativity of the community but also served as a platform to educate and inspire young people about their heritage.
The success of the talent show led to the creation of the Positive Education Achieved through Creative Energy (P.E.A.C.E) program. This program took the talent show on the road to various public schools in and outside of Brooklyn, reaching a wider audience and expanding our impact.
Today, as we work to revive these programs with new and improved technology and acts, I am more committed than ever to making a difference in the lives of underserved youth. Your donation can help us continue to provide valuable resources and support to these communities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.