HistoryI never imagined I would be here - working with inner city youth for 30 years. Ever since I was a young boy I had a desire to create, build, invent and was passionate about becoming an Engineer. I took the prescribed classes in High School and went on to a prestigious Engineering School - Purdue University. In 1995 while at home in Pontiac Michigan on a "sabbatical" I was blessed with an opportunity to teach computer classes at Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary School. Although I knew very little about computers and absolutely nothing about Teaching, I took the job. 30 years later, I’m still at it and I want to acknowledge this journey: Thirty for 30. 
The docuseries tells the story of African American movement over the 20th and 21st centuries, and how it has shaped our nation by exploring the meaning behind those movements. What political or economic pressures inspire people to move? Is it more often inspired by hope or fear? Is there even such a thing as a promised land? Watch the documentary, join the discussion. 
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30 Years
In 1995 I embarked upon a journey that I was unprepared for and unsure of; my first paid job working with young people (instructor, teacher, mentor, youth advocate). 30 years later, I’m still at it; different organizations, different youth, different cities yet I’m still at it. This year (2025) I plan to commemorate my journey by facilitating thirty events/activities that honor 30 year of work in the community, alongside mentors, through organizations and with youth & families: Thirty for 30.
Thirty Events
During this year I will facilitate or participate in Thirty events/activities that commemorate 30 years of work in the community, with mentors & mentees, within organizations and for youth & families.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Event 2: Where Are They Now Photo Challenge (Fox View)
Take a look at these photos from my time as Compeer Center Director at Fox View Computer Center in Carpentersville, IL to help me identify and connect me with others in the photo.
Event 3: Me & Meme Host Family Prayer Line
Me and my precious niece Omeicia are co-hosting our family prayer line the entire month of February. Me and Omeicia are attempting to get more young people involved in the prayer line. Please join us Monday evenings at 7:30 pm (cst).
February 3, 2025 - Is Christianity a White Man's Religion? (Zoom) February 10, 2025 - A Love Supreme (Zoom) February 17, 2025 - Do Young Lives Matter to the Church (Conference Call) February 24, 2025 - Ask An Elder (Conference Call) Zoom Credentials: Member ID: 438 769 1963 | Pass Code: 123456 Conference Call: Phone Number: 267.807.9601 | Access Code: 810579329# Event 4: Docs & Discussions
Event 5: Black Stories Matter
In celebration of Black History Month I am placing an emphasis on Black Stories. The youth of CYC will participate in a story time initiative that will expand their mind and build their black library. The storytellers will select and read a book from our New Black Stories Matter Collection. Students will receive a copy of the book and all additional books will be added to CYC's book collection. Black Stories Matters was made possible through First Book 's Book Wish Book Grant, they awarded a $500 gift credit to the First Book Marketplace to support our kids and refresh our bookshelves.
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PAST EVENTS
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Event 1: How Did We Get Here?
How Did We Get Here? was a live interview discussing the purpose, plan and people involved in this year long series of events and activities. The discussion included Denaryle "Coach D" Williams another Youth Advocate celebrating 30 years. Hosted by Pastor Life Coach Laterra Ruffin. "This work is impactful, but the biggest impact that one will make is not on individuals but the impact the individuals will make on you." - Denaryle "Coach D" Williams |
Stay Connected
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PICTURE GALLERY
Organizations
Bethune Elementary School (Pontiac, MI) | Oakland University - AmeriCorps (Auburn Hills, MI) | Pontiac School District (Pontiac, MI) |Lancaster Community Computer Center (Pontiac, MI) | Lakeside Homes Community Computer Center (Pontiac, MI) | Fox View Community Computer Center (Carpentersville, IL) | Living 2 Learn Founded (Chicago, IL) | Consultant Computer Instructor (Chicago, IL) | Jane Addams Hull House Association (Chicago, IL) | Sonny Speaks Founded (Chicago, IL) | Metropolitan Family Services (Chicago, IL) | LISC - Chicago (Chicago, IL) | Chicago Youth Centers (Chicago, IL)