Mr. Lester Ricks, an accomplished Army Veteran, brings a wealth of diverse expertise to the non-profit sector. His distinguished career as a retired Food & Beverage Manager in Fine Dining instilled in him an unparalleled dedication to service excellence and meticulous operational oversight. These invaluable skills are directly transferable to managing complex programs and ensuring efficient resource allocation within a social non-profit organization.
Beyond his extensive professional experience, Mr. Ricks boasts a robust academic background, holding multiple degrees in fields such as Accounting, Business Management, Human Resource Management, and Hospitality Management. This multidisciplinary education provides him with a comprehensive understanding of organizational development, financial stewardship, and effective team leadership. His diverse accomplishments equip him to address the multifaceted challenges faced by social non-profits, from strategic planning to talent development.
Lester's commitment to service, honed during his time in the Army, perfectly aligns with the mission of social non-profits. His unique blend of military discipline, business acumen, and a deep understanding of human resources makes him an exceptional asset for any organization striving to create positive societal impact. He is poised to leverage his rich experiences and educational background to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of communities.
Ms. Eleanor Taylor, with her Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master's degree, is a powerful advocate for lifelong learning within the social non-profit sphere. Her extensive 14 years of experience teaching students from grades 8 through 12 have provided her with deep insights into fostering academic growth and instilling confidence, skills directly applicable to empowering vulnerable populations. Her dedication to education extends beyond the traditional classroom setting, making her an ideal fit for community-focused initiatives.
Since 2010, Eleanor's certification in Adult Education and Literacy further solidifies her ability to work with diverse learners and address their unique needs. This expertise is crucial for non-profits focusing on workforce development, basic education, or re-entry programs, where individualized support is paramount. She excels at developing tailored educational strategies that promote not only academic achievement but also personal development and self-sufficiency.
Eleanor's profound passion lies in empowering individuals with the essential skills, knowledge, and self-belief required for success in all facets of life. Her commitment to fostering confidence and academic growth aligns seamlessly with the core missions of social non-profit organizations striving to uplift communities and create equitable opportunities through education.
Mr. Ibrahima Cisse, As a graduate in American Literature and Civilization from the University of Ouagadougou, I have a deep commitment to human rights and community empowerment. My early involvement with Amnesty International, where I led a team advocating for vulnerable young girls, solidified my dedication to social causes. This passion was further fueled by collaborating with a peace ambassador on war prevention and peace promotion, alongside developing strong communication skills at the YMCA Harlem English convention.
My practical experience includes helping individuals access health insurance and connect with essential medical services through Harlem United. Leveraging this expertise, I founded American New Friends (ANF), a non-profit organization dedicated to building stronger communities. ANF provides vital information to immigrants, assisting over 1000 individuals in navigating city resources through oral presentations and organizing cultural immersion trips.
My advocacy work extends to active participation in significant events, including meeting with public figures like Bill De Blasio to discuss ANF's role in New York City, and participating in rallies to support English language programs for immigrants. My involvement in the 55th and 61st sessions of the Commission for Social Development and the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations underscores my commitment to broader social change. I've also been a motivational speaker, sharing my personal journey and ANF's mission to aid immigrants with audiences of over 1200 people.
Ms. Korissa Taylor, holding a Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW), is a passionate advocate for community empowerment. Her valuable experience spans case management, counseling, and direct support services for individuals across all age groups, from Pre-K children to adults. She is deeply committed to fostering resilience and well-being within families and individuals through compassionate guidance, the provision of practical resources, and dedicated advocacy.
As a vocal mental health advocate, Korissa is driven by a profound desire to dismantle stigma, elevate public awareness, and guarantee equitable access to essential support systems for everyone to thrive. Her innate heart for service and her commitment to community upliftment resonate seamlessly with the core mission of social non-profit organizations striving for sustainable and impactful change. Korissa's expertise and dedication make her an invaluable asset in our collective effort to build stronger, healthier communities.