W H O W E A R E
Organizing to support black lives 24/7/365!
Our Mission & Vision Statements:
The mission of People of Progression is to use our collective voice, resources, and collaborative partnerships so African Americans and all diversities reach their full potential, lead healthy lives, and live safely within their communities.
People of Progression envisions a society that honors all Afrodiasporic identities, respects our experiences, and celebrates a thriving Black community as a source of pride and joy.
Our Story
Our work started in 2020, when a group of community leaders partnered with a local barbershop to give the community a safe space to come together and heal after local civil unrest.
Deeper issues emerged in our support spaces that continually have been systemically impacting black youth & families. Lack of advocacy services from a culturally focused lens was causing wide gaps in care for our most volnerable population to discrimination and harm.
Over time, our vision and partnerships grew to form People of Progression. We secured our non-profit status in late 2020 and opened our office to provide direct services in 2022. Since we have opened our doors, we have served over 400 individuals & families with support such as but not limited to housing, employment, and legal advocacy services.
Our Staff Team
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Kristen
Kelly
Executive Director
& Co-founder
Ciara Perrizo
Support Services Supervisor
Chloe
Thomas
Health Equity & Suicide Prevention Coordinator
Kimberly
Huddleston
Lead Support Services Advocate
Elijah
Evans
Community Engagement Manager
Shavone Brown
Support Services Advocate
Takieta
Pritchard
Community Outreach & Volunteer Coordinator
Katie
Huskey
Support Group Facilitator
Licensed Clinical Therapist
Malikiya Nance
Maternal Health
Class Facilitator
Brandon Williams
Employment Advocate Intern
Our Board of Directors
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Orson
Fournillier
President
Kathy Constantin
General Member
Ricki Kennedy
General Member