HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
The New Hope Baptist Church has been a part of the Central city community for over 90 years.
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
I have been a part of the New Hope family all of my life. I've served in several capacities including youth pastor, administrative assistant, and currently senior pastor.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
The best aspect of my neighborhood is the people. There are many hardworking people, loving families and energetic kids.
WHAT SUCCESSES HAVE YOU HAD IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
We have had many successes in our neighborhood, particularly community outreach. In addition to feeding the community every Wednesday, we host a variety of activities for the community throughout the year. Those activities include, tutorial programs to assist with homework after school, free dance camps in the summer, youth fun days, senior citizens programs and luncheons, coordinated business expos, health awareness events, etc.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
We are currently in the process of building a Hope Center to serve this community with recreational activities for seniors and youth.
ANY WORDS OF ADVICE FOR OTHER NEIGHBORHOOD LEADERS AND CHANGE MAKERS?
My word of advice for all community leaders and changemakers is to be consistent, compassionate, and creative and trust that you will make a difference even if it doesn’t happen immediately.