Community Advocacy and Empowering Youth with JJ Frank

In this episode, Kevin P. Henry and Chetan Chopra sit with community advocate JJ Frank. JJ shares his inspiring journey from his upbringing in Everett, Washington, to becoming a pivotal figure in empowering students of color and immigrants through education and community programs. He discusses his extensive work in gang intervention, the formation of the Innovative Minority Achievers Program, and his leadership in the Communities of Color Coalition.

The discussion centered on JJ's upbringing in Everett, Washington, and his journey from college football player to community advocate. He was instrumental in forming the Innovative Minority Achievers Program in 2002, which aimed to support students of color and immigrants in their educational pursuits. The role of the Communities of Color Coalition in fostering inclusivity was also highlighted, along with JJ's experience in gang intervention, which focuses on helping youth return to school.

JJ emphasized the significance of the Students of Color Conference in today's climate, reinforcing the empowerment it provides to students. His perspective as a Black man in the community underscores the urgency of mentorship and leadership in effecting change. He shared insights on the challenges underrepresented youth face, stressing the necessity of resources to help them succeed in a complex societal landscape.

Our guest is J.J. Frank, Community Advocate, founder of the Innovative Minority Achievers Program, and Black Men of Action member.

**Episode Timestamps:**

- 00:00 - Introduction to the guest, JJ Frank

- 02:15 - JJ's early life and the transition to Everett

- 06:30 - Overview of the Innovative Minority Achievers Program

- 12:45 - Discussing the Communities of Color Coalition

- 18:10 - Insights on gang intervention and community outreach

- 25:00 - The impact and importance of the Students of Color Conference

- 30:45 - JJ's reflections on empowering youth in his community

**Resources Mentioned:**

- Innovative Minority Achievers Program

- Communities of Color Coalition

- YMCA programs in Snohomish County

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