As Field Director for the R.E.B.U.I.L.D. Community Reinvestment Program, my focus is on addressing systemic challenges such as criminalization, homelessness, and barriers to affordable housing and homeownership. Through strategic partnerships and grassroots initiatives, we aim to create sustainable pathways for community development and economic empowerment in underserved areas. Our work is multifaceted, involving property redevelopment, policy advocacy, and direct community engagement to ensure long-term impact.

Recently, my efforts have centered on expanding R.E.B.U.I.L.D.’s reach and strengthening partnerships. One of our key initiatives has been working with researchers at the University of Central Oklahoma to establish an internship program. This would place students on the ground in Oklahoma, providing valuable hands-on experience while furthering our mission through research, community outreach, and policy development.

Additionally, I have been engaging with the Oklahoma County Treasurer’s Office to explore potential collaborations on property redevelopment. We are assessing tax-delinquent and abandoned properties that could be revitalized through nonprofit initiatives. This dialogue includes discussions on policies that might allow organizations like ours to acquire properties through donations or preferential auction processes, ensuring these spaces are returned to productive community use. We are also advocating for the creation of a joint board that would include county officials, community leaders, and stakeholders to oversee the pilot program’s implementation and impact.

Community partnerships remain at the heart of our work. I have been actively connecting with nonprofits in Ward 7 to expand our network, seeking introductions to institutions specializing in banking, affordable housing, and apprenticeship programs. These partnerships are essential for creating a holistic approach to community reinvestment, ensuring that redevelopment efforts are supported by financial education, workforce development, and long-term stability measures.

Legal support is another critical component of our work. We have reached out to pro bono law firms in Oklahoma City to assist with zoning compliance, quiet title actions, financing agreements, and property development policies. Their guidance will be instrumental in navigating legal barriers and securing a stable foundation for our projects.

Beyond property development, we are also engaged in responding to incarcerated individuals who submit written works for publication, ensuring their voices and stories are heard. Additionally, we are exploring the possibility of hosting a Coaching and Leadership Training Program for incarcerated individuals at San Quentin. This program would equip participants with the skills needed to lead nonprofit initiatives, with insights from industry professionals and media coverage from organizations like The Marshall Project’s Inside Story and Vice News.

These efforts represent just a fraction of what we’re striving to achieve through REBUILD. By fostering meaningful partnerships and engaging with key stakeholders, we are laying the groundwork for sustainable, community-led reinvestment. I look forward to continuing this work and sharing our progress in the months ahead.