Volunteer Highlight

By Taos Washington

Since joining the United Black Family Scholarship Foundation (UBFSF) in August 2023, I have
progressed through several roles, each enhancing my ability to drive meaningful change within
underserved communities. Beginning as the Survey and Research Coordinator, I focused on data
collection and analysis to inform our program development. Transitioning to the Program and
Policy Coordinator position, I contributed to policy formulation and program implementation.
These experiences culminated in my current role as Program and Policy Director, where I
oversee the strategic direction and execution of our initiatives.

In my current capacity, I am responsible for the development and management of several key
programs:

• Hundred Stories Project: In partnership with Stony Brook University and HERSTORY, this
  program provides incarcerated individuals with a self-guided writing curriculum and publishes
  prisoner-written manuscripts, essays, and poetry anthologies.
• Nonprofit Coaching & Leadership Training Conference: Our annual two-day event is
  designed specifically to work with incarcerated citizens to develop the capacity to build
  community leaders and effective programs to address the plethora of social and economic issues
  before underserved communities.
• R.E.B.U.I.L.D. Community Reinvestment Program: This transformative real estate
  development pilot initiative provides “at-promise” youth in prison-pipeline communities with the
  tools, skills, and mentorship needed to restore and revitalize their neighborhoods. Participants
  gain hands-on experience in property management, development, demolition, financing, and
  brokerage, empowering them to create sustainable change.

Through these roles and responsibilities, I remain committed to UBFSF’s mission of fostering
accessible, high-quality education and driving systemic change to dismantle structures that
perpetuate poverty and inequality. My journey within the organization reflects a deep-seated
dedication to empowering individuals and communities through education, leadership, and
economic development.